The claim that people with a certain blood type are more likely to live to 100 years old has been discussed in several longevity studies, but the evidence is not strong enough to say that blood type determines lifespan. Blood type may influence some health risks, and those differences could indirectly affect longevity.
The blood type most often linked with exceptional longevity is blood type O.
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Blood Type O and Longevity: What Studies Suggest
1. Lower risk of certain cardiovascular problems
Some research has found that people with type O blood tend to have lower levels of certain clotting-related proteins, especially von Willebrand factor (vWF) and factor VIII.
- Higher levels of these proteins are associated with increased risk of:
- Blood clots
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Stroke
- Heart attacks
Because type O individuals often have lower levels, researchers have suggested this may provide some protection against clot-related diseases.
2. Lower risk of some age-related diseases
Studies comparing blood groups have reported associations such as:
- Type O: Lower risk of some cardiovascular diseases and blood clotting disorders.
- Non-O types (A, B, AB): Slightly higher risk of some clotting conditions.
However, the differences are usually small compared with major longevity factors such as:
- Diet
- Exercise
- Smoking status
- Blood pressure
- Diabetes control
- Genetics
- Social connections
- Sleep quality
3. Studies of centenarians
Researchers studying people who reach 100 years or older (centenarians) have looked at blood group patterns.
Some studies have found:
- A higher-than-expected number of long-lived individuals with blood type O.
- Other studies have found no meaningful relationship between blood type and extreme longevity.
The results vary because:
- Blood type differs between populations.
- Longevity is influenced by many genes and environmental factors.
- A person’s blood group represents only one small biological characteristic.
4. Why blood type might matter biologically
Blood type is determined by variations in the ABO gene, which affects molecules on the surface of red blood cells and other tissues.
The ABO system can influence:
- Blood clotting
- Inflammation
- Immune responses
- Susceptibility to certain infections
These effects may slightly change disease risks over a lifetime.
5. Other blood types and longevity
There is no clear evidence that A, B, or AB blood types prevent someone from reaching 100.
Some findings:
- Type A: Has been associated with higher cardiovascular and clotting risk in some studies.
- Type B: Research is mixed.
- Type AB: Some studies suggest higher risk of certain conditions, but it is rare and conclusions are uncertain.
The bigger picture: What actually predicts living to 100?
Among centenarians, the strongest recurring factors are:
Lifestyle
- Regular physical activity
- Healthy weight
- Mediterranean-style diets (vegetables, legumes, fish, whole grains)
- Avoiding smoking
- Moderate alcohol intake or none
Medical factors
- Good blood pressure control
- Healthy cholesterol levels
- Prevention and treatment of chronic diseases
Psychological and social factors
- Strong relationships
- Purpose and engagement in life
- Ability to adapt to stress
Genetics
Longevity has a genetic component, especially for people who live beyond 90–100 years. Genes involved in cardiovascular health, inflammation, and cellular repair appear important.
Conclusion
Blood type O is sometimes associated with a slightly higher chance of reaching very old age, mainly because of lower clotting risk, but it is not a “longevity blood type.” A person with any blood type can live to 100, and lifestyle, environment, and genetics have a much larger influence.
If you want, I can also provide a list of the common traits shared by people who live past 100 (centenarian habits and genetics).