Recent research shows that people with blood type A may be more likely to have a stroke before the age of 60 compared to those with other blood types. Blood groups are determined by specific chemicals found on the surface of red blood cells, and the main groups are A, B, AB and O.

A study published in 2022 by Genomics researchers highlighted a significant association between the A1 subgroup gene and early-onset stroke. This research analyzed data from 48 genetic studies involving approximately 17,000 stroke patients and nearly 600,000 controls, all between the ages of 18 and 59.

Key findings of the study

A genome-wide search identified two locations associated with an increased risk of early stroke. One of these sites matched the genes responsible for blood type. Further analysis of specific blood type genes revealed that individuals with the type A variation had a 16 percent higher risk of stroke before age 60. In contrast, those with blood type O1 had a 12 percent lower risk.

Despite these findings, the researchers noted that the additional risk associated with blood type A was minimal, suggesting that increased caution or screening for this group may not be necessary. Senior author Steven Kittner, a vascular neurologist at the University of Maryland, noted unknown factors behind this increased risk. He speculated that this could be related to blood clotting factors or proteins involved in the development of clots.

Contextualization of results

Although the implications of blood type on early stroke risk are intriguing, it is important to contextualize these results. In the United States, nearly 800,000 strokes occur annually, mostly affecting people age 65 and older. Study participants were mainly from North America, Europe, Japan, Pakistan and Australia, and only 35 percent were of non-European descent, suggesting the need for further studies with more diverse populations.

The research also compared individuals who experienced a stroke before and after 60. In the later-onset group, the increased risk was reduced for those with blood type A, suggesting that early strokes may arise from different mechanisms than those that occur later in life. life.

Conclusion: Implications for future research

In addition, people with blood type B were found to be approximately 11 percent more likely to experience a stroke compared to controls, regardless of age. Previous research has linked the genetic region that codes for blood type to coronary artery calcification and a higher risk of venous thrombosis.
The study highlights the need for further research into the mechanisms behind the increased risk of stroke associated with certain blood types, particularly in the younger population.