People with Type AB blood have an 82% higher risk of developing memory loss and cognitive decline.

A major study published in the medical journal Neurology in 2014 analyzed data from over 30,000 people aged 45 and older. The research was part of a larger project known as the REGARDS study, which stands for Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke. Led by Dr. Mary Cushman of the University of Vermont College of Medicine, the team tracked participants for over three years to identify those developing cognitive impairment.The findings revealed that individuals with Type AB blood were 82% more likely to develop memory and thinking problems compared to those with other blood types. This correlation is largely attributed to the presence of Factor VIII, a key blood-clotting protein. People with Type AB blood typically have higher concentrations of this protein than those with Type O blood. High Factor VIII levels are associated with an increased risk of blood clots and vascular issues.Because the brain relies on a constant and healthy supply of oxygenated blood, any restriction in blood flow can cause long-term damage. While blood type is determined by genetics and cannot be changed, researchers emphasize that this risk can be mitigated. Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and physical activity levels helps maintain cardiovascular health, which is the best defense against cognitive decline regardless of blood type.