Guide To Understanding The Different Blood Types
Blood is made up of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Markers called antigens are found on the surface of red blood cells, and differences in these markers classify various blood types. There are thirty-five different systems of blood group classification. Currently, blood is primarily categorized according to its ABO group and the presence or absence of the Rh factor. The blood type a child has is determined by genetics. Doctors mix a patient's blood sample with different substances to see how the blood reacts to reveal an individual's blood type. Blood typing tests are normally performed at birth. Patients are also tested before blood donation.
Individuals need to know their blood type. It helps many aspects of their health, including blood transfusions, surgery, or organ transplants. In most cases, patients will be asked their blood type, but can receive a typing test before their procedure. Of course, they may receive blood from a universal donor if their blood type is unknown. Some individuals may be able to order a blood test to find out themselves as well. However, it is still vital to understand the various blood types.
Type O
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Type O blood lacks both A and B antigens. However, antibodies to both types A and B are present in the plasma of patients with type O blood. O negative blood is often considered the 'universal donor' type because patients with any blood type can receive it. The latest research suggests while this is the case for most situations, O negative blood may not always be the best type for blood transfusions for certain patients. O negative blood is one of the rarest blood types in the United States. Only an estimated seven percent of Americans have this type. Individuals with O negative blood can only receive blood that is also O negative. However, they can give blood to patients who are A positive or A negative, B positive or B negative, and AB positive or AB negative.
O positive blood is the most common blood type in the United States; approximately thirty-eight percent of the United States population has this type. Individuals with O positive blood can receive blood transfusions of either O positive or O negative blood. O positive blood donations can be given to individuals who have A positive, B positive, or AB positive blood.
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