Your blood type could play a small role in your risk of stroke before age 60, according to a 2022 meta-analysis led by researchers at the University of Maryland. The study, which analyzed data from nearly 17,000 stroke patients and 600,000 controls, found that people with blood type A had a 16% higher risk of early-onset ischemic stroke, while those with type O had about a 12% lower risk.
Scientists point to clotting factors as a likely reason. People with type A blood tend to have higher levels of von Willebrand factor and Factor VIII, which promote clotting. Genetics also play a role, since the chromosome region that determines blood type was linked to stroke in the analysis. Still, experts note the effect is modest compared with lifestyle risks such as high blood pressure, smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise.
Doctors emphasize that this finding shouldn’t cause alarm or trigger extra screenings based on blood type alone. Instead, it highlights how stroke risk is shaped by many factors. The best way to protect against early stroke remains the same for all blood types: maintain healthy blood pressure, avoid smoking, eat a balanced diet, and stay physically active.
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