Summary:
- Vaccines can protect against more than just infectious diseases. Certain vaccines have been found to reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases like type 1 diabetes and even some types of cancer.
- The BCG vaccine, which protects against tuberculosis, has been shown to lower the risk of developing type 1 diabetes. Researchers believe it may help regulate the immune system and prevent the body from attacking its own insulin-producing cells.
- The HPV vaccine, which prevents infection with human papillomavirus, can also reduce the risk of certain cancers, like cervical, anal, and head and neck cancers, that are caused by HPV.