DO you know your blood type? If you do, good for you. But if you don’t, it’s about time you consider blood typing.
There are four main blood groups or blood types — A, B, AB, and O. Your blood type depends upon the gene you inherit from your parent. According to a report, quite a number of people don’t know their blood group. You may not be aware of it but this may pose a problem especially in the event of emergency that may need blood transfusion, says Red Cross. Research also reveals that it is beginning to connect blood type to a person’s risk of developing serious health conditions that could be addressed early on. Knowing your blood type also makes it easier for you and for the blood bank or provider in case you decide to donate blood.
In a survey conducted by OnePoll, it was found that about a third of Americans don’t know their blood type. This is true not only in developed countries but more so in third world countries like the Philippines, where information about blood typing is limited or not given importance.
What is blood typing? Blood typing is a laboratory test where a person’s blood sample is taken and mixed with antibodies against type A and type B blood. The same sample is then checked to see if the blood cells stick together or not. If the blood cells stick together, it means the blood reacted with one of the antibodies.
Then, a second step called back typing, is done. Serum, the protein-rich liquid part of the blood without cells, is mixed with type A and type B blood. People with type A blood have anti-B antibodies; while people with type B blood have anti-A antibodies. Type O blood has both types of antibodies. These steps can accurately determine a person’s blood type.
It pays to know your blood group, whether you have health issues or not.
