Type O Blood

Why is Type O Blood so Important

Here's Why Blood Type Matters

Before the discovery of blood types in 1901, people were receiving blood transfusions regardless of blood type. These transfusions were the cause of many deaths due to the incompatibilities. We have come a long way since 1901. Research and understanding of blood type compatibility safeguards patients today against adverse reactions. For more information on what blood types are compatible download the blood compatibility chart here.

Type O Negative

O negative is the most common blood type used for transfusions when the blood type is unknown. This is why it is used most often in cases of trauma, emergency, surgery and any situation where blood type is unknown. O negative is the universal blood type.
O negative blood type can only receive O negative blood.
O negative donors who are CMV negative are known as Heroes for Babies at the Red Cross because it is the safest blood for transfusions for immune deficient newborns. Learn more about how you can be a Hero for a Baby.
Only 7% of the population have O negative blood. Due to the its versatility for transfusions, it is in high demand. In an emergency, it is the blood product of choice. For example, just one car accident victim can require up to 100 units of O neg. Meeting the demand for O negative blood is always a priority for the Red Cross.
O negative is the first blood supply to run out during a shortage due to its universality.

Type O Positive

Type O positive blood is given to patients more than any other blood type, which is why it’s considered the most needed blood type.
38% of the population has O positive blood, making it the most common blood type.
O positive red blood cells are not universally compatible to all types, but they are compatible to any red blood cells that are positive (A+, B+, O+, AB+).
Over 80% of the population has a positive blood type and can receive O positive blood. That’s another reason it’s in such high demand.
In major traumas with massive blood loss, many hospitals transfuse O positive blood, even when the patient’s blood type is unknown. The risk of reaction is much lower in ongoing blood loss situations and O positive is more available than O negative. Type O positive blood is critical in trauma care.
Those with O positive blood can only receive transfusions from O positive or O negative blood types.
Type O positive blood is one of the first to run out during a shortage due to its high demand.

Did You Know?

About 43% of Americans are type O.

Heart disease is lower with type O.

Type O can donate red blood cells.

Why Donations Are So Important

Latest studies have shown that someone in the US needs a blood transfusion every 2 seconds each day in the United States. The average person can only donate 1 pint of whole blood in a single donation and the shelf life is 42 days, which is why the need to keep replenishing the supply to meet demand is great. Only 38% of the population in the United State are eligible to donate blood, but only 3% donate.

O Blood Type