Our blood type is determined by the presence or absence of certain antigens on the surface of our red blood cells. There are four main blood types: A, B, AB, and O. AB is considered the rarest blood type, occurring in only 3% of the population.

People with AB blood type have both A and B antigens on their red blood cells and are known as universal recipients because they can receive blood from any type. However, being part of this unique blood group can also come with some health concerns. Let’s take a closer look at some of the potential health risks for individuals with AB blood type.

Increased Risk of Heart Disease

AB blood type has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease. A study published in the European Journal of Epidemiology found that people with AB blood type are 23% more likely to develop heart disease compared to those with blood type O.

The exact reason for this increased risk is unknown, but some researchers believe it may be related to the higher levels of amino acid homocysteine in individuals with AB blood type. Elevated levels of homocysteine are known to increase the risk of heart disease.

Higher Risk of Cognitive Decline

Research has suggested that individuals with AB blood type may have a higher risk of cognitive decline in later life.

A study published in the journal Neurology found that people with AB blood type have a higher risk of developing memory problems as they age. The exact reason for this increased risk is unknown, but some researchers believe it may be related to the lower levels of factor VIII, a blood-clotting protein, in individuals with AB blood type.

Reduced levels of factor VIII have been associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline.

Increased Susceptibility to Cancer

AB blood type has also been associated with an increased susceptibility to certain types of cancer. A study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that women with AB blood type have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Another study published in the journal Blood found that individuals with AB blood type have a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer. The exact reason for this increased risk is unknown, but some researchers believe it may be related to the higher levels of certain hormones in individuals with AB blood type.

Higher Risk of Blood Clots

People with AB blood type have also been found to have a higher risk of developing blood clots.

A study published in the journal Blood found that individuals with AB blood type are 37% more likely to develop blood clots compared to those with blood type O. The reason for this increased risk is unknown, but some researchers believe it may be related to the higher levels of von Willebrand factor, a protein that plays a role in blood clotting, in individuals with AB blood type.

Elevated levels of von Willebrand factor have been associated with an increased risk of blood clots.

Increased Susceptibility to Viral Infections

AB blood type has also been associated with an increased susceptibility to certain viral infections.

A study published in the journal Blood found that individuals with AB blood type were more likely to develop severe symptoms if they contracted dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection. The exact reason for this increased susceptibility is unknown, but some researchers believe it may be related to the higher levels of a certain type of antibody in individuals with AB blood type.

This antibody may enhance the ability of the virus to enter cells and cause infection.

Possible Benefits of AB Blood Type

While individuals with AB blood type may be at higher risk for certain health concerns, there may also be some potential benefits to this blood type. For example, people with AB blood type are more resistant to certain strains of E. coli bacteria.

They may also have a lower risk of peptic ulcers, as Helicobacter pylori bacteria are less likely to attach to the lining of their stomachs.

Conclusion

While having AB blood type may come with some potential health concerns, it is important to note that these risks are generally modest.

Many factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors, play a role in determining a person’s overall health and risk for disease. It is important for individuals with AB blood type, like those with any other blood type, to maintain a healthy lifestyle and see a healthcare provider regularly for preventive care.