Dementia risk ‘could be increased’ by common virus after scientists find link
A new study suggests a strong link between herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), which causes cold sores, and Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers analyzed data from over 344,000 individuals and found those with HSV-1 had an 80% higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Intriguingly, patients treated with antiviral medications showed a 17% reduced risk, hinting at potential preventive benefits. The study, published in *BMJ Open*, highlights HSV-1’s role in brain inflammation, which may contribute to Alzheimer’s progression.
While the exact connection remains unclear, scientists believe dormant herpes viruses like HSV-1 and varicella-zoster (which causes chickenpox and shingles) could trigger harmful inflammatory changes in the brain. The findings open new avenues for research into antiviral treatments as a possible defense against dementia. However, further studies are needed to confirm these results and explore how managing herpes infections might lower Alzheimer’s risk.
