Bombay Phenotype – the rarest blood group.

“Bombay Phenotype” as the name indicates was found first in Bombay and it is the rarest blood group in the world. Incidence is 0.0004% of the global population. i.e. 1 in 17,600 people in India or 1 in 25,000 people in the world are of this special type of blood group. Total 179 people were known to have of this blood group in India, but the 180th person has been identified in Bangalore BGS hospital yesterday. 42 year old Annappa Hanumanthappa of Davangere was here for donating blood for his 6 year old son for the cardiac surgery and he was identified as the 180th person.

As this blood group has resemblances with “O” group, all this blood group holders have to make sure it is not Bombay Phenotype. Because a person with Bombay Phenotype should always cautious not to receive or donate any other blood group. They should carry an identity card prominently displaying blood group.

BGS Global Hospital’s Rare Blood Group Registry helpline: 2625 5654

World blood donor day.

Today, June 14^th is celebrated as world blood donor day.

Preparations for blood donation.

• Have a regular healthy meal the previous day and day of donation, do not fast before donation.
• Don’t drink alcohol for 48 hours before donation.
• Avoid smoking on day of donation.
• Drink plenty of fluids on the day, but avoid caffeine.
• Wear something comfortable, with sleeves that can be rolled up.
• After donation, sit down for a while and eat light anacks that is offered.
• Drink plenty of liquids and juices for next couple of hours.
• Donor can go back to work within half an hour of giving blood, but should avoid intense physical exertion immediately after donation.

Criteria for donation

• Must be above 18 years of age
• Donor should not be underweight - more than 45-50 kg is fine
• Should not be suffering from infections such as a cold or flu or chronic diseases(diabetes/cancer etc)
• Should not have taken any intoxicating drugs, orally or otherwise
• Should not have blood pressure or low blood pressure
• Pregnant or menstruating women not eligible to donate

Facts

It takes around 24 hours for our body to replenish the volume of blood and hemoglobin level is usually replenished within 7-10 days.