Some blood types are rare, while others are so versatile that they are ready to step up and save the day in any situation. However, even with a range of diverse blood types, every blood type matters. Whether rare or common, each blood type plays a crucial role in saving lives.
The O-positive blood group with a ratio of one out of every three in the population, tends to get the spotlight, so does O-negative, even though this blood group is found in one in every 17 in the population. It is because the O blood group is the universal blood group, which means it can be given to all patients. O-negative can be given to everyone, regardless of their blood group and O-positive can be given to men and females, not in childbearing years, and everyone belonging to a positive blood group. We especially use the O blood group in emergencies and trauma when there is no time to confirm the blood group of the patient before transfusion.
We have 73 446 blood donors in our active donor base. The O-positive blood group is the most prevalent amongst our donors at 40.91%. However, the South African population, has 39.0% of the O-positive blood group. Although our active donor base shows that we have more donors in this blood group, it’s quite evident that there is a gap that needs to be filled in order to meet with demand. We can say the same thing about the B positive group, we only have 14.32% in this group and yet the population has 12%. B-positive is an important blood group for treating people with sickle cell disorder who need regular transfusions. It’s important for the public to come and donate blood no matter which blood group they belong to, they are equally important in improving and saving lives.
Donors knowing their blood group has its significance, as it allows them to understand which blood group they are compatible with. Interestingly, this also serves as a quick conversation starter between donors and friends. To read more about the different blood groups and blood group compatibility please click here.
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