Most people associate health with diet and exercise, but the body is also influenced by genetics.
According to Northwestern Medicine, inherited factors can affect the risk of conditions such as blood clots and heart problems.
Blood type is one of these factors. People have blood types A, B, AB, or O, and they can be either positive or negative depending on a protein in the blood.
Blood type is usually used in connection with blood transfusions, but research suggests it may also influence overall health, Newsner writes.
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Research and risks
Studies cited by Tyla show that certain blood types are more prone to forming blood clots. This is because the blood in these individuals clots more easily.
According to analyses reported by the New York Post, there are also differences in stroke risk between blood types.
In addition, research points to a possible link with certain types of cancer, including colorectal cancer.
People with blood type O generally have a lower risk of both blood clots and heart attacks than those with other blood types.
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This suggests that blood type may play a role in several different diseases.
Lifestyle still matters
Although there are differences between blood types, lifestyle remains crucial.
According to the CDC, the risk of disease can be reduced by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption.
Genetics is only one part of the explanation. Therefore, it is important to view health as a whole.
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Sources: Newsner, Northwestern Medicine, Tyla, New York Post, and CDC.
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