Can Kissing and Oral Sex Lead to Dementia? Herpes Virus Link Explained

Mar 22, 2025 Komal Das

HSV-1, spread through kissing or oral sex, may cause brain inflammation and increase dementia risk, a study reveals

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Professor Deepak Shukla's study links HSV-1 to brain inflammation and dementia via the enzyme heparinase

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HSV-1 infects two-thirds of the world, spreading through sores, saliva, or skin contact, and occasionally causes genital herpes

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Studies reveal HSV-1 triggers brain inflammation, nerve damage, and long-term memory and motor skill decline

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Intranasal HSV-1 infection poses lasting risks, with experts urging awareness due to its lifelong impact

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