While genetics and lifestyle play major roles in longevity, several studies suggest that people with type O blood may have a slight edge when it comes to living to 100.
Here is what the research says about blood type and extreme longevity:
1. The Centenarian Studies
A notable 2012 study that examined centenarians (people who live to 100) found a higher frequency of the O blood type among people who reached extreme old age compared to younger control groups. Researchers believe that people with type O blood may have a genetic predisposition that offers some protection against certain diseases.
2. Cardiovascular Protection
One of the leading theories for why type O might be linked to longevity is cardiovascular health. People with blood types A, B, and AB have higher levels of a clotting protein called von Willebrand factor and factor VIII. Because of this, non-O blood types have a statistically higher risk of developing dangerous blood clots, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolisms. They are also at a slightly higher risk for heart attacks and strokes. By having naturally lower levels of these clotting factors, type O individuals have a lower baseline risk for these fatal cardiovascular events.
3. Lower Risk of Certain Cancers
Some epidemiological studies have shown that people with type O blood have a slightly lower risk of developing certain cancers, particularly pancreatic cancer and gastric cancer, compared to those with type A, B, or AB. (Conversely, type A blood has historically been associated with a slightly higher risk of gastric cancer.)
An Important Caveat:
While type O may offer a slight genetic advantage in these specific areas, it is not a guarantee of a longer life, nor does having a different blood type mean you are destined for a shorter one.
People with type O blood actually have a higher risk of dying from severe trauma or major bleeding, as well as a higher risk of peptic ulcers caused by H. pylori bacteria. Furthermore, a 2021 study looking at overall mortality found no significant difference in lifespan between blood types when accounting for all causes of death.
The Verdict:
When it comes to living to 100, having type O blood is a minor biological “bonus” mainly because of a lower risk of blood clots and certain cancers. However, your daily habits, diet, exercise, environment, and luck play a much larger role in determining how long you live than the antigens on your red blood cells.