That headline is misleading and overstates what research actually shows.
What the studies really say
Some observational studies have explored whether certain blood types (A, B, AB, O) are slightly more common in very old populations. A few have suggested that people with blood type O might appear a bit more frequently among long-living groups in certain populations.
But important context:
- The difference is small and inconsistent
- Results vary by country and study design
- No blood type has been proven to “increase lifespan” or “predict living to 100”
What blood type actually affects
Blood type is mainly linked to:
- Blood transfusion compatibility
- Slight differences in risk for certain conditions (for example, clotting risk, ulcers, infections in some studies)
But these effects are minor compared to lifestyle and environment.
What truly matters for living to 100
Research consistently shows that longevity is much more influenced by:
- Healthy diet (especially whole foods, low ultra-processed food)
- Regular physical activity
- Not smoking
- Moderate alcohol or none
- Good sleep
- Managing blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol
- Social connection and low chronic stress
- Access to healthcare
