Distribution of Abo, Rhesus Blood Groups and Haemoglobin Variants among Residents of Yenagoa and Environs, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: ABO, Rhesus blood groups and Haemoglobin variants are known to vary from one population to another. This study therefore sought to study the frequency of these indices among residents of Yenagoa and Environ, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.

Objectives: The study was designed for the purpose of updating information on the prevalence of abnormal haemoglobin variants, ABO, Rh blood groups and serve as a platform for instituting genetic counseling services with a view to reducing haemoglobinopathies.

Methods:Standard electrophoretic and haemagglutination techniques were employed in testing the blood samples.

Results: Of the 5,183 residents screened, 73.32% were HbAA, 25.03% HbAS, 0.28%  AC, 1.3%  SS, 0.06%  SC. 20.30% were of blood group A, 22.70% group B, 3.0% group AB and 54% group O. 95.5% were Rh.D positive while 4.5% were Rh D negative. Analysis of the residents population revealed that 2702(52.1%) were females while 2481 (48.9%) were males. The age range is between 1–60 years.

Conclusion: Knowledge of the distribution of ABO, Rh blood groups and haemoglobin variants in any population is useful in health care planning, medical diagnosis and targeting the population that need counseling. If such information is well managed it can make a difference in the quality of decisions that individuals will make especially as it concerns marriage, blood transfusion and other medical demands.

Keywords:  haemoglobin variants, ABO, Rhesus blood group, Yenagoa, Nigeria.