Your blood type could be associated with a higher risk of heart disease than others, according to new research from Harvard.
People with type AB, which is only found in about 7 percent of the U.S. population, were found to have a 23 percent increased risk of coronary heart disease than those with type Os (found in about 43 percent of people in the United States). B blood types had an 11 percent higher risk, and people with type A blood had a 5 percent higher risk compared with type O blood.
Study researcher Dr. Lu Qi, M.D., Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Department of Nutrition at the Harvard School of Public Health, said in a statement:
“While people cannot change their blood type, our findings may help physicians better understand who is at risk for developing heart disease. It’s good to know your blood type the same way you should know your cholesterol or blood pressure numbers. If you know you’re at higher risk, you can reduce the risk by adopting a healthier lifestyle, such as eating right, exercising and not smoking.”
More research is needed, as researchers said they don’t understand the exact cause for this blood type-heart disease connection.
No matter your blood type, make sure to stay on top of your annual check-ups, avoid smoking and excessive drinking, and try and watch your cholesterol!
Related:
Heart-Smart Reasons to Get Up Off the Couch and Exercise
9 Surprising Risk Factors for Heart Attacks
