Understanding blood types is essential for medical procedures like transfusions and organ transplants. Blood types are categorized based on the presence of antigens on red blood cells. Let’s explore the eight main blood types, from least to most common, including the rarest blood type worldwide.
O-Positive (O+)
Prevalence: 37.4% of the population
O-positive is the most common blood type, found in 37% of the U.S. population. It is prevalent in various ethnic groups and can be donated to any positive blood type.
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A-Positive (A+)
Prevalence: 35.7% of the population
A-positive is the second most common blood type and can donate to A and AB positive blood types.
B-Positive (B+)
Prevalence: 8.5% of the population
B positive is less common but significant, able to donate to B and AB blood types.
O-Negative (O-)
Prevalence: 6.6% of the population
O negative is the universal donor type and vital for emergencies.
A-Negative (A-)
Prevalence: 6.3% of the population
A negative blood type is somewhat rare and can donate to A and AB blood types.
AB-Positive (AB+)
Prevalence: 3.4% of the population
AB positive is rare but can donate plasma universally and receive red blood cells from any blood type.
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B-Negative (B-)
Prevalence: 1.5% of the population
B negative blood type is uncommon and can donate to B-positive and B-negative recipients.
AB-Negative (AB-)
Prevalence: Less than 1% of the population
AB negative is the rarest main blood type, with unique donation and receiving capabilities.
The Rarest of Them All: Rhnull (Golden Blood)

Prevalence: Less than 1 in 6 million people
Rhnull, or golden blood, is the rarest blood type globally, with unique transfusion benefits.
Why Rare Blood Types Matter

Rare blood types play a crucial role in specific medical treatments, highlighting the need for diverse blood donations.
Conclusion
Knowing your blood type is vital for emergency situations, emphasizing the significance of blood donations, whether common or rare.
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Sources
- “What is the rarest blood type? Here is the least common of the eight blood types.” USA Today. March 24, 2024.
- “What are the rarest and most common blood types?” Medical News Today. Danielle Dresden. January 31, 2024.
- Blood
- “What is the rarest blood type?” Medical News Today. Zawn Villines. October 10, 2023