Flickr: Arrow D
by: Leonard Achan RN, MA, ANP
Most people who go for regular checkups have had their blood drawn dozens of times by their early 20’s but unless they ever needed a blood transfusion or are regular blood donors; they rarely know their blood type. As you read this article right now you should be asking yourself, “Do you know your own blood type?”
This is one of those things that you may feel you never need to know, but is in actuality one of the most important pieces of information you should know about yourself. Having this information handy in an emergency could be the difference between life and death for you or a loved one. Some blood types are very rare so carrying a card in your wallet indicating your blood type could make a huge difference in an emergency.
Finding out your blood type is as simple as asking your physician for a blood test or checking your patient file from prior blood draws. Donating blood is also a great way to help others and learn about what blood type you have.
You can find out more about blood types and blood donations from the American Red Cross at http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodtypes.asp
Here’s a simple chart from givelife2.org which shows the blood types that are needed most in the US.
What blood type is needed most? Take a look and tell us how you feel about donating blood.
| Blood Type | Distribution of Blood Type in U.S. Population* | Percent of U.S. Population You Can Receive Red Blood Cells From | Percent of U.S. Population You Can Give Red Blood Cells To |
| O + | 38% | 45% | 84% |
| O - | 7% | 7% | 100% |
| A + | 34% | 85% | 37% |
| A - | 6% | 13% | 44% |
| B + | 9% | 56% | 12% |
| B - | 2% | 9% | 15% |
| AB + | 3% | 100% | 3% |
| AB - | 1% | 16% | 4% |
October 13th, 2009 at 6:15 pm
Actually No. I do not know my blood type and I have had a transfusion before. I never really thought about it. No one expects bad things to happen but I guess being prepared can give you that extra minute or few seconds. I don’t donate because I assume everyone else will. Maybe I will in the future. Thanks
October 14th, 2009 at 7:14 am
Very interesting article. I have a child and will definitely find out my blood type- for the benefit of myself and my family- it’s funny how something so simple to find out is the one thing most of us do not know. Thanks for the info!
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