Mar 25, 2016 · You’ve probably donated blood at least once in your life so, along with free apple juice, the American Red Cross gave you a card identifying your blood type. If you found out you're type AB, you're pretty unique, in fact, you have the rarest blood type of all. So why are so few people categorized as AB?

There are four main blood types: A, B, AB and O. Blood bank specialists determine your blood type based on whether you have antigen A or B on your red blood cells.

Less than 1% of the U.S. population have AB negative blood, making it the least common blood type among Americans. Patients with AB negative blood type can receive red blood cells from all negative blood types. Less than 4% of the U.S. population have AB positive blood.

The universal red cell donor has Type O negative blood. The universal plasma donor has Type AB blood. For more about plasma donation, visit the plasma donation facts. Nearly 16 million …

Blood type (or blood group) is determined, in part, by the ABO blood group antigens present on red blood cells. A blood type (also known as a blood group) is a classification of blood, based on the presence and absence of antibodies and inherited antigenic substances on the surface of red blood cells (RBCs).

Sep 15, 2023 · The ABO system has four major blood types: A, B, AB, and O. Blood types are further categorized by the presence (positive or +) or absence (negative or -) of the Rh (D) antigen on the surface of their red blood cells, also known as the Rh factor. This produces the eight major blood types. A and B antigens are sugars.

Dec 26, 2024 · Four main blood types exist: A, B, AB, or O, and everyone has a positive or negative Rh factor. Blood types are important because they affect blood transfusions, pregnancy outcomes, and blood donation. This article outlines the different blood types and their practical application in blood donation and medical care.

You’re an AB blood type — either AB-positive (AB+) or AB-negative (AB-). But what exactly does that mean for you and the patients who can receive your blood? Let’s explore some AB blood type facts.

Nov 28, 2023 · Learn about blood types, including A, B, AB, O and Rh+ and Rh-. See which blood type is the universal donor and universal recipient.

Mar 7, 2025 · There are four major blood type groups: A, B, AB, and O. Your blood type is determined by the presence or absence of specific antigens (proteins and sugars)—which act as identification...