Blood Group Linked To Memory Loss

There may be a link between a rare blood type and memory loss in later
life, American research suggests.

People with AB blood, found in four per cent of the population, appear
more likely to develop thinking and memory problems than those with
other blood groups.

The study, published in Neurology, builds on previous research showing
blood type may influence heart risk.

A charity said the best way to keep the brain healthy was a balanced
diet, regular exercise and not smoking.

A US team led by Dr Mary Cushman, of the University of Vermont College
of Medicine, Burlington, analysed data from about 30,000 US citizens
aged 45 and above.

Current evidence suggests the best ways to keep the brain healthy are
a balanced diet, not smoking and regular exercise"

It identified 495 participants who had developed thinking and memory
problems, or cognitive impairment, during the three-year study.

They were compared to 587 people with no cognitive problems.

People with AB blood type made up six per cent of the group who
developed cognitive impairment, which is higher than the four per cent
found in the general population.

They were 82per cent more likely to have difficulties with day-to-day
memory, language and attention, which can signal the onset of
dementia.
-BBC