蜜芽传媒

Dementia is now the UK鈥檚 leading cause of death - but could a vaccine one day help prevent it? New data from Wales suggests the shingles vaccine is linked to a 20% lower risk of developing dementia in later life, adding to evidence that viral infections can influence brain health.

Dr. Pascal Geldsetzer, Assistant Prof of Medicine at Stanford University discusses his findings and the further evidence required to prove this link, along with Prof Tara Spires-Jones, Group Leader in the UK Dementia Research Institute.

The UK has begun using the world鈥檚 first gonorrhoea vaccine - though it was originally developed for meningitis. With antibiotic-resistant strains increasing, we speak to Dr Suneeta Soni about why gonorrhoea has been so hard to target with vaccines.

At the Bristol Robotics Lab, engineers are creating devices to support mobility in older age. James meets Jonathan Rossner and tries out 鈥淭he Right Trousers鈥� - an inflatable exoskeleton designed to help people walk and to strengthen their muscles.

Presenter: James Gallagher
Producers: Debbie Kilbride, Tom Bonnett & Minnie Harrop
Editor: Ilan Goodman
Production coordinator: Ishmael Soriano
This episode was produced in partnership with The Open University.