The most requested blood type is O-negative.
This blood type is considered the "universal donor" because it can be safely transfused to patients with any other blood type. This is because O-negative red blood cells lack both A and B antigens, meaning they won't trigger an immune response in recipients with different blood types.
While all blood types are important, O-negative blood is highly sought after due to its versatility in emergency situations. It is often used for trauma patients, newborns, and people undergoing surgery.
The demand for O-negative blood is consistently high, making it crucial for blood banks to maintain sufficient supplies.
Here are some reasons why O-negative blood is so important:
- Universal Donor: O-negative blood can be given to anyone, regardless of their blood type.
- Emergency Situations: O-negative blood is essential in emergencies, such as trauma, surgery, and childbirth.
- Limited Supply: Only about 7% of the population has O-negative blood, making it a valuable and often scarce resource.
