Prevalence of ABO and Rhesus Blood Groups in Blood Donors: A Study from a Multispecialty Hospital of Western Uttar Pradesh

ABO and Rhesus (Rh) blood group antigens are genetically controlled and inherited in Mendelian fashion. These are helpful in genetic studies, in resolving paternity issues and for safe blood transfusion.

This study was designed to determine the prevalence and distribution pattern of the ABO and Rh blood groups among the donors in Western Uttar Pradesh.

The study was conducted in Super specialty hospital, Meerut U.P. on 15600 blood donors for a period of two years i.e. from January 2014-December 2015. This was a retrospective study. Blood bank records were analyzed and evaluated for the required information. ABO and Rh typing was done using slide agglutination method with antisera ABO and Rh. Doubtful cases were confirmed by tube agglutination method and reverse grouping using pooled A and B cells. The age group, gender, results of agglutination tests were entered in data sheet.

The predominant donors were males. (94.42%). Most common age group of donors was 20–39 years of age (66.38%). Most donors were replacement donors (87.98%) in comparison to voluntary donors (12.02%). Most common blood group found was ‘B’ group. Least common group was ‘AB’ group. Most donors were Rh positive and only 3.43% donors were Rh negative. Blood group frequencies for ABO, Rh positive and Rh negative blood groups were B>O>A>AB.

Proper knowledge of frequencies of the different blood groups is crucial for blood bank services so that significant contribution can be given in National health system.