Study Links Blood Type to Early Stroke Risk

A recent study has revealed a connection between blood type and the risk of early stroke, particularly among individuals under 60, Earth.com revealed yesterday.

Researchers analyzed data from 48 genetic studies, involving 17,000 stroke patients and 600,000 non-stroke individuals. They found that people with type A blood have a 16% higher chance of experiencing a stroke before age 60, while those with type O1 have a 12% lower risk. Additionally, type B blood is associated with an 11% increased likelihood of stroke, regardless of age.

The study indicates that the increased risk for type A may relate to factors influencing blood clot formation. Interestingly, the heightened risk diminishes in late-onset strokes, suggesting different triggers for early and late strokes. Previous research linked the ABO blood group to coronary artery calcification and venous thrombosis. While blood type is a significant factor, genetics and lifestyle choices also play crucial roles in stroke susceptibility. The findings were published in the journal Neurology.