Recent research reveals that blood type plays a key role in predisposition to cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly non-O blood types (A, B and AB), which have an increased risk of heart disease and cerebrovascular accidents (CVA). Understanding the particularities of each group can help anticipate risks and adapt protective lifestyle habits.
How does blood type affect cardiovascular health?
Blood type is determined by the presence of proteins, or antigens, on the surface of red blood cells, which influence the immune response and the clotting process. A study published in Scientific Reports showed that blood groups A, B and AB are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis, a hardening of the arteries that causes myocardial infarction and acute coronary syndrome. According to researchers, these antigens can alter blood clotting and increase inflammation, creating a breeding ground for cardiovascular disease.
Studies and statistics: increased risk for non-O groups
The works of Harvard Universityspanning two decades and involving more than 80,000 participants, found that people in groups A, B and AB have significantly higher risks of developing coronary heart disease. In comparison with group O:
- People in group A have a 6% increased risk,
- Those in group B have a 15% increased risk,
- Those in group AB see their risk increase by 23%.
These results remained consistent even when taking into account other known risk factors. A complementary study presented during the 4th World Congress on Heart Failure also demonstrated that non-O groups have a 9% higher probability of heart attack, confirming a global trend.
Link between blood type and risk of stroke
A meta-analysis published in the journal Neurology in 2022, involving more than 16,000 stroke patients, found that blood group A is associated with an increased risk of early stroke (before age 60), while group O appears to offer some protection against these incidents. This confirms that blood groups can influence not only coronary heart disease, but also other vascular pathologies such as stroke.
People with type 1 diabetes and microalbuminuria (a precursor to diabetic nephropathy) also show a greater susceptibility to cardiovascular disease if they belong to groups A, B or AB. According to a study by Cardiovascular Diabetology conducted on more than 4,000 patients, non-O groups increase the risk of ischemic heart disease by 81% compared to individuals in group O. This risk even reaches 94% for patients in group A.
Cardiovascular prevention: advice to reduce risks
For all blood groups, preventive measures help limit cardiovascular risks, particularly in people with groups A, B and AB, who are more vulnerable. L’American Heart Association recommends the following habits to maintain heart health:
- Stop smoking : Smoking doubles the risk of CVD, including heart failure and stroke.
- Adopt a healthy diet : a diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables and low in saturated fat helps reduce blood pressure, cholesterol and sugar levels.
- Control blood pressure : aim for a blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg through a low-salt diet, regular physical activity, and treatments if necessary.
- Practicing physical activity : 150 minutes of moderate walking per week is enough to reduce cardiovascular risks.
- Maintain a healthy weight : Excess weight increases the risk of CVD. Even modest weight loss can have beneficial effects.
- Managing diabetes : regular check-ups, a balanced diet and exercise are essential to prevent cardiovascular complications linked to diabetes.
- Get enough sleep : Getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night is recommended to avoid hormonal imbalances and stress, which are harmful to the heart.
- Reduce stress : practicing meditation, exercising, and spending time with loved ones are effective ways to reduce stress.
- Limit alcohol consumption : Consuming alcohol in moderation reduces the risk of stroke and heart failure.
Scientific discoveries underline the importance of knowing your blood type to adapt your lifestyle habits and prevent cardiovascular risks. Although everyone can benefit from a healthy lifestyle, individuals in groups A, B, and AB should pay particular attention to cardiovascular risk factors. Understanding genetic predispositions, combined with an adapted lifestyle, represents the best defense for preserving your heart health in the long term.
Photo credit: DR
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