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Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) May Play a Significant Role in Alzheimer’s Disease Development
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A groundbreaking study reveals a potential connection between Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1), the common virus responsible for cold sores, and an elevated risk of Alzheimer’s disease. With over 7 million Americans currently battling Alzheimer’s and projections estimating nearly 13 million cases in the coming years,understanding potential risk factors is more critical than ever [Alzheimer’s Association]. The research highlights the potential role of HSV-1 in alzheimer’s disease.
The HSV-1 and Alzheimer’s Connection: what the Research Shows
Researchers, in a study published in BMJ Open, sought to determine if there was an association between herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and Alzheimer’s disease using real-world data [1]. The study,leveraging the IQVIA PharMetrics Plus database,analyzed data from 344,628 pairs of individuals aged 50 and older,diagnosed with Alzheimer’s between 2006 and 2021.
The findings indicated that individuals with a prior HSV-1 diagnosis where nearly twice as likely to receive an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. specifically, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s in those 65 or older jumped from an average of 11% to nearly 20% in individuals with HSV-1.
Did You Know? The National Institute on Aging estimates that approximately 6.7 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease in 2023 [National Institute on Aging].
Hopeful News: Treatment May Reduce Risk
The study also offered a glimmer of hope. Participants who received treatment for their HSV-1 infection exhibited a 17% reduction in their risk of being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. This suggests that managing HSV-1 infections could perhaps mitigate the risk of developing the neurodegenerative disease.
Understanding Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1)
The Herpes Simplex Virus is highly contagious and causes oral herpes, genital herpes, and infections in other areas of the body [Johns Hopkins medicine]. HSV-1, in particular, is extremely common. it is indeed estimated that 50% to 80% of U.S.adults have HSV-1, which typically causes oral herpes, also known as cold sores. While there is no cure for herpes, antiviral medications can definitely help
