An observational study published in the American Academy of Neurology suggests flu shots have benefits beyond virus protection. Flu shots reduce stroke risk. Ischemic stroke is caused by blocked blood flow to the brain and accounts for 87% of all strokes.
A 14-year study followed 14,322 stroke survivors in Spain. Study subjects ranged from 40 to 99 years old. They were compared with five stroke-free people of their age and gender. The study also included those without stroke. A comparison between the stroke date and the flu shot date determined if participants received their flu shot within 14 days of the stroke.
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The study found that 41.4% of stroke survivors had their flu shot, compared to 40.5% of those without. After controlling for vascular conditions (vaccinated people tend to have higher blood pressure and cholesterol), vaccinated people were 12% less likely to have a stroke.
Experts Say Your Flu Shot May Reduce
Stroke Risks.
The reason for this positive outcome is unknown. “At this stage, we can only speculate about the mechanisms, but previous studies have supported this hypothesis,” said Dr. Francisco José de Abajo, the Study author.
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Study participants’ decreased stroke risks could be explained by a decrease in systemic inflammation markers. Researchers believe the flu vaccine lowers stroke risk because the pneumonia vaccine did not. However, the new study has some limitations. In this observational study, diet and exercise were not examined daily.
Keeping a healthy weight, diet, and exercise reduces stroke risk. Vaccines may improve health practices in other areas.