Memory loss that occurs as we age is among the inevitable conditions. But memory loss does not affect everyone equally. Many people do not experience loss of memory and cognitive functions in old age. There are many risk factors that cause dementia diseases. Studies show that your blood type can increase your risk of dementia.
WATCHED FOR THREE YEARS
A study published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, found a link between blood type and dementia. As part of a larger study that observed more than 30,000 people over three years, the study’s authors identified 495 participants who had problems with thinking and memory during the study and compared them to 587 people without cognitive impairment.
AB BLOOD TYPE IS MORE RISK OF DEMENTATION
They found that people with AB blood type were 82 percent more likely to develop thinking and memory problems that could lead to dementia than those with other blood types. This may be the result of a protein that people with group AB are more likely to have.
HIGH POSSIBILITY TO DEVELOP MEMORY PROBLEMS
The researchers also looked at blood levels of the protein factor VIII, which helps blood clot. People with high levels of factor VIII protein also had a higher risk of dementia, as they were 24 percent more likely to develop thinking and memory problems than people with low levels of this protein, according to the study.
40 PERCENT MORE THAN THOSE WITH 0 BLOOD TYPES
In an article for The Conversation, study author Dr. Kristine Alexander, an analyst, wrote that people with blood type AB have the highest levels of factor VIII protein—almost 40 percent higher than those with blood type 0.
RISKS OF STROKE ALSO HIGH
People with AB blood have a higher risk of stroke, which can lead to dementia. A different study by the same group of researchers found that blood group AB was associated with an increased risk of stroke, compared with blood group 0, whereas blood group A and B were not. According to WebMD, people who have had a stroke are much more likely to develop dementia than people who have not had a stroke. In fact, about one in four people who have a stroke will develop symptoms of dementia.
AB BLOOD GROUP IS THE RAREEST BLOOD GROUP
Fortunately, if you don’t know your blood type, chances are very high that you don’t have AB blood type. In Europe, that blood type is between 3.5 and 6 percent of the population. Researchers noted that there are numerous lifestyle factors that can reduce the risk of cognitive problems and dementia, and many of them have a greater impact than your blood type.
WHAT TO DO TO REDUCE THE RISK OF DEMENTATION
- Avoid water with high copper content
- Sleep on your side for brain health
- Find your life purpose
- Take care of your oral and dental health
- Walk 3 times a week
- Quit smoking and alcohol
- Keep your brain active
- eat healthy