- What is the most common type?
- Who can receive my blood?
- What types can I get if I need blood?
- What blood type do hospitals need most?
- How can I find out what my type is?
According to the American Association of Blood Banks, 39% of the US population has type O blood.
View the chart to see what blood type rankings are among the US population.
Combatibility:
Check the chart to see what ABO blood and plasma types are compatible between donors and recipients. Rhesus factor, or Rh factor, must also be compatible between donors and recipients. The basic rule of thumb is to match a patient with an Rh- factor blood type with another compatible Rh- factor blood type. People with Rh+ factor blood can receive blood with a + or - Rh factor, as referenced in the chart.
You may have guessed by viewing the chart that hospitals have the greatest need for type O blood, based upon the mere fact that much of the population has type O blood. Moreover, people who have type O blood can only receive type O blood transfusions. It is no wonder that hospitals need lots of type O blood for patients who require it for surgery, or for people who require transfusions to treat their blood disorder or cancer. In addition, emergency patients tend to receive type O- blood since it is compatible for everyone.
Give blood to find out your blood type and help others have it when they suddenly need it. It is advantageous for women to know their blood types, especially if they plan to have children. Sometimes women need to get rho (D) immune globulin injection, such as RhoGAM, to prevent a compatibility issue between mother and fetus.
Donating blood will also help to save 3 lives with a single donation! Each pint of collected blood is broken down into red cells, plasma, and platelets so that it benefits 3 patients.
