Zoster Vaccine Lowers Stroke and Myocardial Infarction Risk in Chronic Disease

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• Herpes zoster (shingles) is a known risk factor for cerebrovascular events, including stroke and myocardial infarction.
• Individuals with comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and chronic respiratory or liver diseases are particularly at risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of live attenuated zoster vaccination on the risk of stroke and myocardial infarction.
• To assess cardiovascular benefits in patients with various at-risk comorbidities.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study using de-identified claims data (2005-2018) from 200 million commercially insured Americans.
• Analysis of 27,093 vaccinated adults matched 1:5 with unvaccinated controls, with at least 5 years of enrollment.
• Evaluation of stroke and myocardial infarction risk using odds ratios and risk differences, controlling for comorbidities.

Main Results:

• Vaccinated individuals showed lower proportions of myocardial infarction (1.29% vs 1.82%) and stroke (1.61% vs 2.20%) compared to unvaccinated individuals.
• Significant risk reduction observed in patients with diabetes, hypertension, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Greatest benefit seen in patients with diabetes, with stroke odds ratio of 0.64 and myocardial infarction odds ratio of 0.63.

Conclusions:

• Live attenuated zoster vaccination is associated with reduced risk of stroke and myocardial infarction in adults with at-risk comorbidities.
• The findings suggest potential cardiovascular benefits of zoster vaccination extending beyond viral disease prevention.