What Is The Bombay Blood Group And Why Is It Found Only In 1 Out Of 10,000 Mumbaikars?
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The Bombay blood group (hh) is rare because it lacks the H antigen on red blood cells, which is essential for forming A and B antigens in the blood
Donating blood is often seen as a noble act that can save lives, and many are willing to do so. However, before any transfusion, doctors must determine the donor's blood group to ensure compatibility. While most people are familiar with the common eight blood groups—A, B, AB, and O, each with positive and negative types—there exists a rare blood group that remains largely unknown. This makes matching donor and recipient blood types critically important, as a mismatch can lead to severe medical complications.
Recently, a 30-year-old woman in India underwent a successful kidney transplant, during which blood transfusion was required. However, her case drew attention due to her extremely rare blood type — the Bombay blood group (hh).
Why Is This Blood Group Rare?
The Bombay blood group (hh) is considered rare because it lacks the H antigen on red blood cells — a crucial component required for the formation of A and B antigens. Without the H antigen, the body cannot produce A or B antigens, even if the genes for them are present.
As a result, individuals with this blood group cannot receive blood from any other group, including O-negative, which is usually considered a universal donor. This rarity makes transfusions particularly challenging. The Bombay blood group was first identified in 1952 in Mumbai by Dr. Y.M. Bhende.
Although it mimics the O blood group during standard blood typing due to the absence of the H antigen, it does not match with O group blood during cross-matching. Individuals with O, A, B, or AB blood groups cannot donate to them.
What Is The Golden Blood Group?
There is a rare blood group known as the Rh-null blood group, often called the Golden Blood Group due to its extreme rarity. Out of the world's population of about eight billion, only around 45 people are known to have this blood type. Discovered in 1961, this blood group lacks all Rh antigens, making it unique. Individuals with Golden Blood have been found in countries like the United States, Colombia, Brazil, and Japan.
Only 45 People Have This Blood Group
A 2018 research report found that only 45 people worldwide have the rare Rh-null, or Golden Blood Group. Of these, only nine are eligible to donate. Remarkably, this blood type can be transfused to anyone, as it is compatible with all other blood groups. However, if a person with this blood group needs a transfusion, finding a match is extremely difficult. Because of its rarity and universal compatibility, it is considered the most expensive blood type in the world.
What Is The Rh Factor?
The Rh factor is a special protein found on the surface of red blood cells. If present, the blood is Rh-positive; if absent, it is Rh-negative. However, people with Golden Blood have no Rh factor at all—known as Rh-null—making their blood extremely rare and unique.
Golden Blood Also Brings Challenges
People with golden blood often suffer from anemia and are advised to consume iron-rich foods. Since their blood lacks antigens, transporting it internationally is difficult. Therefore, donated blood from active donors is carefully stored and reserved exclusively for transfusion back to the same individual when needed.
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