How Blood Type Impacts COVID-19 Risk Insights from ABO Group Studies

Introduction

How Blood Type A Increases COVID-19 Susceptibility

  • Individuals with blood group A may have a higher expression of ACE2 receptors, the entry point for the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
  • Natural anti-A antibodies are absent in group A, removing a critical barrier to viral entry.
  • Studies indicate more ICU admissions and ventilator dependency among blood group A and AB patients.

Why Blood Group O May Be Protective

  • Group O individuals possess both anti-A and anti-B antibodies, which may block the virus from binding to host receptors.
  • Lower furin enzyme activity in group O might reduce viral entry efficiency.
  • Global datasets show people with blood group O are 926% less likely to test positive for COVID-19 compared to other groups.

Mixed Evidence for Blood Groups B and AB

  • Blood group B presents a variable picture: some studies suggest lower mortality, while others show moderate infection rates.
  • AB blood group doesn’t significantly affect infectivity rates but is linked to more severe symptoms and extended ICU stays.

Pregnancy, Blood Groups, and COVID-19 Outcomes

  • Pregnant women with blood group A or Rh-positive status are more prone to severe COVID-19 symptoms.
  • Blood group O and Rh-negative status may offer some protective benefits.
  • No strong evidence of vertical (mother-to-fetus) transmission was observed, although fetal outcomes may vary.

External Perspective: Role of ACE2 in Infection

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