Stroke risk factors linked to medical urgency and blood type

Medical experts and recent research are highlighting the diverse risk factors and universal nature of strokes. Cardiologist Dr. Bichara Digui Abderaman Yacoub emphasizes that strokes can affect anyone, regardless of age or social status, noting that the World Health Organization reported nearly 11.9 million new cases in 2021.

Strokes are categorized into two main types: ischemic, caused by blood clots, and hemorrhagic, caused by a ruptured artery. Common warning signs include sudden paralysis, speech disturbances, facial drooping, or intense headaches. Because symptoms often overlap between types, immediate medical attention is critical.

Furthermore, a study published in Neurology involving approximately 620,000 participants has identified a correlation between blood types and stroke risk. Research led by vascular neurologist Dr. Steven Kittner suggests that individuals with the A1 blood subgroup gene face a 16% higher risk of stroke before age 60, while those with the O1 gene may see a 12% reduction in risk. Scientists believe these variations may be linked to blood coagulation factors.