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Many of us first learned our blood types during school donation drives, often encouraged by the promise of soda and bread.
Back then, our understanding was limited, shaped by myths such as ‘Type O is rare and grants immunity’ or ‘donating blood means giving your life to another.’ While untrue, these myths highlight the mystery surrounding blood types. There are four main blood types: O, A, B, and AB, each classified as positive or negative based on the Rh factor.
Blood type is usually determined during hospital visits, especially when a transfusion may be needed, such as in surgery or childbirth. According to the National Library of Medicine (NIH), doctors never rely on verbal claims for transfusions; rigorous lab testing ensures compatibility.
Blood type prevalence varies across the globe. World Atlas reports that O+ is the most common (42 per cent), followed by A+ (31 per cent), B+ (15 per cent), AB+ (5 per cent), O- (3 per cent), A- (2.5 per cent), B- (1 per cent), and AB- (0.5 per cent). In Kenya, the NIH states that O is the most common (47.4 per cent), followed by A (26.2 per cent), B (22 per cent), and AB (4.4 per cent). Interestingly, 96.1 per cent of Kenyans are Rh-positive, while only 3.9 per cent are Rh-negative.
Understanding your blood type is a small but significant step in managing your health. It equips you with knowledge that can be crucial in emergencies, informs medical decisions, and even shapes your health habits. If you don’t know your blood type yet, consider getting tested. It’s a small step that can make a significant difference.
In emergencies requiring blood transfusions, knowing your blood type allows medical personnel to provide compatible blood quickly, reducing risks. Type O negative is a universal donor, meaning it can be given to any patient, but it is rare, making up only about 3 per cent of the global population. In Kenya, the demand for O negative blood is particularly high due to its scarcity. Pregnant women need to know their Rh status. If an Rh-negative mother is carrying an Rh-positive baby, complications can arise in future pregnancies. However, with early medical intervention, these risks can be managed, ensuring a safe pregnancy.
Understanding your blood type helps you donate more effectively, especially for high-demand types. Type O negative is crucial in emergencies as it can be given to any patient. In Kenya, there is a pressing need for O negative donors to meet transfusion demands.
Research by the NIH suggests that some blood types are more prone to certain diseases. Type A is linked to a higher risk of stomach cancer, while Type O may have a lower risk of heart disease. Knowing your blood type can encourage proactive health screenings and lifestyle changes.
Some studies suggest blood type may affect how your body responds to certain medications. While studies are still ongoing, emerging findings indicate blood type may influence treatment effectiveness and side effects, prompting further study.
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