A survey of blood groups

Area of Science:

• * Hematology
• * Population Genetics
• * Anthropology

Background:

• * Understanding the distribution of human blood groups is crucial for transfusion medicine and population studies.
• * Previous data on blood group frequencies in Punjab, Pakistan, is limited, necessitating updated research.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To determine the frequency of ABO and Rh blood groups in a Punjab population sample.
• * To analyze blood group distribution across different castes.
• * To investigate the prevalence of Rh-negative phenotypes.

Main Methods:

• * A cross-sectional survey involving 1415 participants from Punjab.
• * Blood group typing using the slide method for ABO and Rh factor determination.

Main Results:

• * Overall blood group frequencies: O (34.14%), B (36.16%), A (21.20%), and AB (9.05%).
• * Blood group distribution varied significantly among castes, with ranges for A (13.57%-30%), B (28.125%-50%), O (16.67%-40%), and AB (0%-25%).
• * Rh-negative individuals constituted only 2.76% of the sample, with higher frequencies observed in Baluchs, Awans, and Gujjars compared to Rajputs, Jats, and Arains.

Conclusions:

• * Blood group B and O are the most prevalent in the studied Punjab population.
• * Significant variations in blood group frequencies exist across different castes.
• * Rh-negative blood type is uncommon, with specific ethnic groups showing a higher incidence.