Different blood types are associated with a higher risk of developing heart disease, strokes and certain cancers.
- Blood groups are genetic and therefore cannot be changed.
- Mosquitoes would prefer to feed on people with blood group O.
A, B, AB and O. There are four main blood groups. These have specific antigens, i.e. substances that can produce antibodies, and therefore different immune responses.
People with blood type A have A antigens, those with B have B antigens. In contrast, those with AB blood have both A and B antigens and people with O blood have neither. one nor the other. These differences have implications.
For example, a person with blood type B has B antigens on their red blood cells. Thus, his immune system will not analyze other B antigens as pathogenic. On the other hand, if A antigens are found in his body, through a blood transfusion for example, his immune system will try to destroy these cells as if it were an infection.
Higher risk of cancer for blood group A
Several studies show that blood type can increase the risk of certain diseases. In an article published on the website of the Tufts University School of Medicine sharesRaymond Comenzo, a hematologist and professor at this university, reviews current knowledge associated with the risk of developing a disease based on blood groups.
In terms of cancer, scientific research shows that people who belong to blood group A are more at risk of developing stomach cancer. This is mainly due to the fact that they are more carriers of the bacteria Helicobacter pylori. According to High Authority of Health (HAS), 6 to 10% of people withHelicobacter pylori will develop a stomach ulcer. This bacterium can also cause inflammation and can sometimes lead to cancer.
Patients with blood groups A, B or AB also have a higher risk of developing cancers of the pancreas, lung, breast, colorectal and cervix. “The ABO gene may also play a role in increasing the risk of certain cancers“, explains Raymond Comenzo.
A, B and AB more at risk of heart disease and stroke
When it comes to heart disease, blood types A, B, and AB are associated with a greater risk of heart attack and bleeding disorders. Indeed, a study published in the journal neurology shows that people with blood group A are more at risk of having a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) before the age of 60 compared to people with blood group O. The latter would also be less likely to die from the Covid-19.
Until now, it is mainly about observing the links between blood groups and certain diseases, but researchers are not yet able to explain the reasons. More studies will therefore be needed to better understand the real impact of blood groups on these risks, which nevertheless remain minimal compared to the risk factors that can be controlled such as diet, physical activity, etc.
