When it comes to heart health, science indicates that blood type is significant.
Do you know what your blood type is?
Every second of every day, minuscule changes in your blood flow through your veins, identifying your blood as belonging to one of the following groups: Multiple types are A+, A-, B+, B-, O-, O+, AB+, AB-, and Rhnull. You have never given it a second thought unless you have donated blood, received a transfusion, or found out you are pregnant.
According to continuing research, blood type may be more significant than previously believed in estimating the risk for certain diseases, including heart disease. These subtle blood changes may provide some individuals with an advantage in avoiding cardiovascular illness, while leaving others more susceptible.
What is the significance of blood type, and how does it differ from other blood types?
The letters A, B, and O represent polymorphisms of the ABO gene that control human blood cells to form different blood types in a variety of ways. Your body is designed to produce A and B antigens on red blood cells, for instance, if you have blood type AB. Antigens are not created by individuals with blood type O.
The presence of proteins on red blood cells determines the "positive" or "negative" status of blood. Positive Rh indicates that your blood contains proteins.
People with blood type O- are considered "universal donors" since their blood lacks antigens and proteins, allowing it to be received by anyone in an emergency.
However, why do different blood types exist? According to Dr. Douglas Guggenheim, a hematologist at Penn Medicine, ancestry and previous infections that prompted defensive changes in the blood may have contributed to the diversity. People with blood type O are more susceptible to cholera, while those with blood types A or B are more likely to develop blood coagulation issues. Even though our blood cannot keep up with the myriad biological or viral threats that circulate in real time, it may represent past events.
"In short," Guggenheim contends, "it's almost as if the body has adapted to its environment to guard it as best it can."
The blood types most prone to cardiovascular disease.
According to the American Heart Association, those with blood types A, B, or AB are more likely to experience a heart attack or develop heart failure than those with blood type O.
While the risk of heart attack and heart failure is minimal (types A and B had a combined 8% increased risk of heart attack and 10% greater risk of heart failure in a large study), the AHA reports that the variation in blood clotting rates is considerable. People with blood types A and B were 51 percent and 47 percent more likely to develop deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, both of which can increase the risk of heart failure.
According to Guggenheim, inflammation in the bodies of those with blood types A, B, or AB could be a source of this increased risk. Blood proteins of types A and B may increase "blockage" or "thickening" in veins and arteries, hence raising the risk of clotting and heart disease.
Guggenheim also believes that this could explain the anecdotal (but unproven) reduction in the likelihood of severe COVID-19 disease in individuals with blood type O, which has prompted more inquiry. With severe COVID-19 disease, heart problems, blood clotting, and other cardiovascular issues are common.
Other consequences of blood type
People with blood type O have a reduced risk of heart disease and blood clotting, but a higher risk of hemorrhaging and bleeding disorders. According to a study on postpartum blood loss, which revealed an increased risk for women with blood type O, this may be especially true after delivery.
According to a study published in Critical Care, persons with blood type O may have a worse prognosis following a catastrophic accident due to increased blood loss.
According to additional studies, those with blood type AB may be more susceptible to cognitive impairment than those with blood type O. Problems with memory, focus, and decision-making are examples of cognitive impairment.
Should I alter my lifestyle based on my blood type?
New research reveals that a person's blood type can affect their risk of developing heart disease. However, nutrition, exercise, and even the level of pollution in your neighborhood are also crucial predictors of heart health.
Guggenheim feels that regardless of a patient's blood type, he would recommend a heart-healthy diet that reduces inflammation to those seeking to maintain heart health.
According to him, future research may provide doctors with more definitive ways to treat patients based on their blood type. Aspirin may be beneficial for patients with healthy cholesterol levels and blood type A, but it may not be necessary for patients with blood type O.
Guggenheim adds, "Any physician will recommend a well-balanced, heart-healthy diet in general, and ABO does not modify that."
He adds, "I do not believe there is a protective benefit associated with blood type O that correlates to acquittal."