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The risk of developing a stroke depends on the blood type
Last reviewed: 23.11.2021
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Scientists suggest that some blood groups are associated with an increased risk of stroke. This conclusion was reached by researchers from Harvard University in Brieham, their report was voiced at a scientific conference of the American Heart Association 2011 in Orlando.
The author of the study, Dr. Joanne Manson and his colleagues studied the relationship between the human ABO blood group and the risk of stroke.
ABO includes blood groups A (II), B (III), AB (IV) and O (I).
Based on two large studies involving more than 90,000 men and women, which took place over more than 20 years, the researchers found that:
- Blood group B was associated with a 17% increase in the risk of stroke in women, but not in men.
- AB's blood group was associated with a 29% increase in the risk of ischemic stroke in men and women.
An ischemic stroke occurs due to a blockage of the blood vessel in the brain. Hemorrhagic stroke - due to rupture of a weakened blood vessel. Transient ischemic attacks (TIA or "mini-stroke") occur as a result of clogged vessels with temporary clots.
When the blood type AB with type O was examined, the researchers found that women with AB blood group had a higher risk of stroke by 28%, and in men, by 32.
Differences in blood groups reflect the difference in glycoproteins on the surface of red blood cells, which in turn affect the immune system. Dr. Manson suggested that these changes can affect the stickiness of red blood cells, so some blood groups form clots and thrombi more easily than others.
Although we can not change the blood type of people, but knowing this type of information can help identify people with a high risk of stroke, the researchers say. Doctors need to carefully identify other risk factors in people with a risky group for the timely prevention of stroke.