What if something as simple as your blood type could play a role in how well — and how long — you live? A recent study from Japan is prompting scientists and the public alike to rethink the relationship between genetics and longevity.

Blood Type and Longevity: A Surprising Link?

In a study involving 269 centenarians living in Tokyo, Japanese researchers compared their blood types to over 7,000 individuals from the same area. Their findings were unexpected: blood type B appeared far more frequently among those who had reached 100 years or more. This discovery hints at a potential link between blood type B and exceptional longevity.

A separate investigation added weight to these results. By evaluating the biological age of 11 different organs in more than 5,000 participants, researchers found that people with blood type B showed fewer signs of accelerated aging. This advantage was attributed to more efficient cell regeneration and improved ability to handle metabolic stress, both critical factors in slowing the aging process.

What Makes Blood Type B Potentially Beneficial?

Blood type B is defined by the presence of the B antigen on red blood cells and the production of anti-A antibodies. This unique immunological profile may enhance cellular repair and provide a stronger defense against oxidative stress, which plays a major role in age-related decline.Furthermore, some studies indicate that individuals with blood type B may be better equipped to manage metabolic challenges, which could lower their risk for chronic illnesses often associated with aging, such as type 2 diabetes or cognitive decline.

Not All Advantages — Some Caution Needed

That said, having blood type B isn’t entirely risk-free. Other research has linked this blood group to a slightly higher risk of cardiovascular issues. For this reason, experts advise those with type B to be particularly mindful of their lifestyle choices, including maintaining a nutritious diet, engaging in regular exercise, and practicing effective stress-reduction techniques.

A Broader Perspective on Aging

While blood type is only one element in the complex picture of human longevity, these findings suggest it could be a more important factor than previously believed. However, no matter your blood group, the foundation of healthy aging remains the same: prioritizing good nutrition, physical activity, and mental well-being.

In reality there are more than 300 blood types but they all fall into one of four key groups — type A, B, AB or O, collectively known as ABO.

We each come under one of these groups and, while type O is considered the most common, your blood group is determined by your genetics.

Your parents each pass down their blood type genes and the mix determines your type — so, a type O mum and a type B dad could have a type O or B child, whereas a type O mum and dad could only have a type O child.

What makes the four types different from each other is a molecule — known as an antigen — that attaches to the outside of your red blood cells.

“If you imagine a red cell as a doughnut, think of these molecules as the sprinkles and trimmings on the doughnut,”, according to Professor Robert Flower, from the Australian Red Cross Blood Service.