Saturday, March 29, 2025
Can your blood group influence your heart health? Recent large-scale studies suggest it can. People with blood groups A, B, or AB may face a significantly higher risk of heart attacks and blood clots compared to those with blood group O. This new medical insight challenges the long-held belief that heart disease risk is based only on age, diet, or lifestyle.
According to a study published in the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology by the American Heart Association, individuals with blood types A and B are 8% more likely to suffer from a heart attack. The study analyzed health data from nearly 400,000 people, making it one of the most extensive of its kind.
A separate 2017 study conducted by the European Society of Cardiology included over 1.36 million individuals. It concluded that people with non-O blood groups are 9% more likely to develop heart disease. Specifically, people with blood group B had a 15% higher risk of heart attacks, while those with blood group A were 11% more likely to experience heart failure.
Scientists have found that non-O blood groups have higher levels of a protein called von Willebrand Factor (VWF), which promotes blood clotting. This increases the risk of thrombosis—formation of clots that can block blood flow. When clots form in arteries near the heart, they can cause serious blockages, reducing oxygen supply and triggering a heart attack. In fact, people with blood groups A or B are 44% more likely to form dangerous clots compared to those with blood group O.
Traditionally, doctors assess heart disease risk using factors like age, cholesterol, blood pressure, and gender. However, experts now suggest that blood group should also be considered. For instance, individuals with blood group A often show higher levels of LDL cholesterol and a protein called Galectin-3, both of which are linked to inflammation and heart failure.
This emerging evidence points toward the need for personalized prevention strategies. In the future, health check-ups and treatments may factor in your blood group to better prevent cardiovascular conditions.
If your blood type is A, B, or AB, it’s a good idea to monitor your heart health more closely and consult your doctor for proactive measures.
