About blood
Understanding blood
Blood circulates through our bodies, delivering nutrients and oxygen and removing waste. It consists of plasma, red and white blood cells, and platelets. Understanding types, compatibility, and the donation process matters for donors and recipients.
Blood groups
- Type A – A antigens
- Type B – B antigens
- Type AB – A and B antigens
- Type O – No antigens (universal donor)
Rh factor
Rh+ or Rh− is determined by the presence or absence of the Rh antigen.
Rh+: Most common. Rh−: Can receive Rh− or Rh+.
Why donation matters
Donations save lives every day—surgery, trauma, cancer treatment, chronic conditions. One donation can help up to three people.
Surgery
Operations & procedures
Trauma
Emergency care
Cancer
Chemotherapy & treatment