Can Blood Type Affect the Risk of Blood Clots? Scientists Explain

Scientists have found that blood type influences the risk of thrombosis. Carriers of the third blood group have a 45% higher probability of developing blood clots than those with the first group. An increased risk is also observed in people with the second group. Deep vein thrombosis most often affects the legs. Additional risk factors include age, prolonged sitting, smoking, obesity, hormonal changes, diabetes, and hypertension. For prevention, physical activity, a balanced diet, and giving up bad habits are recommended.

Scientists have established that blood type directly affects the tendency to form blood clots. According to a study published in the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, carriers of the third blood group have a 45% higher risk of thrombosis than those with the first group. This group is particularly associated with a high risk of deep vein thrombosis, which most often affects the legs. The second blood group also confers a significant predisposition, but lower than the third. A thrombus is a blood clot that can break off and reach the lungs, causing pulmonary embolism—a deadly threat. Additional risk factors include age, prolonged sitting, smoking, obesity, hormonal changes, diabetes, and hypertension. For prevention, regular physical activity, a balanced diet, giving up bad habits, and leg exercises during prolonged sitting are recommended.