O- Blood Type: Prevalence, Statistics & Geographic Distribution
O-negative (O-) blood type prevalence varies significantly by ancestry and geography:
- United States: ~7% of population
- Europe: ~6% (higher in Basques, Celts, Scandinavians)
- Asia: ~1–3% (very rare in East Asia)
- Africa: ~3–5% (varies by region)
- Indigenous Americas: Higher frequencies in some groups
Clinical Significance
- Universal red cell donor: O- RBCs can be transfused to any blood type in emergencies.
- Universal plasma recipient: Can only receive O- plasma.
- Critical for trauma, neonates, and immunocompromised patients.
- Chronic shortage: High demand, low supply—O- donors are especially encouraged to donate regularly.
Blood type is genetically determined (ABO and Rh genes). Knowing your type aids emergency preparedness and donation eligibility.
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