When it comes to blood types, there are four main categories within the ABO group: A, B, O, and AB. There are eight additional blood types within these groups, with O being the most common and AB negative being the rarest.
Do some of these influence stroke risk more than others? The best answer at this time is maybe.
Recent press release drew attention to a research study that focused on whether blood type may be associated with stroke risk before age 60. stroke.
Research like this is important and provides a great opportunity to learn more about our risks, but sensational internet headlines can cause people to prematurely worry about certain factors beyond their control. This is especially true given that we inherit our blood types from our parents.
Blood type and stroke risk
“There are many nuances and variables to consider when interpreting research studies like this,” he said. Marco Gonzalez Castellon, M.D., Nebraska Medical Neurologist. “This study suggests having type A blood as a potential risk factor for early stroke, suggesting only a 16% chance of increased risk, but this Research has its limits.
This study may point us in the right direction to build on for future research, but it tends to provide more clues than answers.
Most experts consider age 45 to be the standard for early stroke, but this study defined early stroke as anyone younger than 60. family history, etc.
“This research is important, but the results come down to mathematics,” adds Dr. Gonzalez Castellon. disease. ”
In other words, research results may indicate a possible correlation, but not causation. Further research is needed to understand the relationship between blood type and stroke risk.
Other health factors outweigh blood type when considering stroke risk
Blood type may contribute to stroke risk, but it is not the biggest concern.The degree of association is much higher with certain health conditions and lifestyle factors.
“When it comes to stroke, the biggest risk factor is if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure,” says Dr. Gonzalez Castelón. “Smoking history and uncontrolled diabetes are two other big risk factors. Your blood type cannot protect you from the effects of these conditions or lifestyle choices.”
Stroke prevention: You can’t control your blood type, but you can control other aspects of your health
Nearly 80% of strokes are preventable, according to the American Stroke Association. The most effective way to reduce risk is to Make a healthy lifestyle change now.
practice a healthy lifestyle
- Choose healthy foods and drinks.Avoid saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, sugar and high sodium foods
- lose weight or maintain a healthy weight
- Move more and sit less.Regular exercise helps keep other health conditions at bay
- Do not smoke or quit smoking.Smoking damages the heart and blood vessels and raises blood pressure
- Limit alcohol intake.Excessive alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure and raise triglyceride levels
- Reduce stress levels.Stress can lead to unhealthy behaviors like overeating, inactivity and smoking
- Check your cholesterol and blood pressure regularly
- Get regular doctor visits
Managing chronic illness with your healthcare team
- Control diabetes and manage as recommended by your doctor
- Hypertension monitoring and management
- Treating heart disease, such as coronary artery disease and atrial fibrillation
- Take your medicine as directed by your doctor
obtain More Stroke Facts For more information, signs and symptoms.
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