Could blood type affect memory loss and increase the risk of dementia? According to a brand-new research, it may be true.
In a new study published in Neurology, researchers concluded that those who have blood type AB are more than likely to develop dementia than the other groups. AB is considered the rarest of all blood types.
The research, which lasted for more than 3 years, was conducted among a thousand plus participants who were at least 45 years old. During the first phase of the study, the participants were then requested to undergo a series of memory tests before their blood samples were drawn. Then after a little over 3.5 years, they were again monitored, revealing that those who have AB blood has more than 80% chance of decreased cognitive function, which may lead to dementia.
Although the research tries to establish the possible connection, it doesn't really answer the root cause. It's possible that a certain type of protein known as coagulation factor VIII may play a role. Those with blood type AB tend to have more of this protein than the others. Nevertheless, they believe that this association warrants further study.
They also appeal to the public, especially those in the AB group, not to be concerned or panic since the study has to be expanded further. Moreover, memory loss or decline risk can still be greatly reduced with lowering cardiovascular risk, exercising, and eating healthy. It also helps to avoid smoking.
The link between health and blood type has been a subject of many studies. In fact, some experts suggest a diet that is according to the person's specific blood type. Blood type AB, meanwhile, is so rare only 4% of the world's population has it. Although people with type AB+ cannot donate blood other than to those of the same blood type, they are also a universal recipient, which means they can receive blood from the others, including type O.
