Frequencies and ethnic distribution of ABO and RhD blood groups in China: a population-based cross-sectional study

Abstract

ObjectivesABO and RhD blood groups are key factors affecting blood transfusion safety. The distribution of ABO and RhD blood groups varies globally, but limited data exist for ethnic distributions of these blood groups in Asian populations. We aimed to evaluate the distribution of ABO and RhD blood groups among Chinese ethnic groups.DesignA population-based cross-sectional study.SettingData on ABO groups and ethnicities were obtained from the National Free Preconception Health Examination Project (NFPHEP) with participants from 220 counties of 31 provinces in ChinaParticipantsThere were 3 832 034 participants aged 21–49 years who took part in the NFPHEP from January 2010 to December 2012 and were included in this study.Outcome MeasuresThe proportion of ABO and RhD blood groups among different ethnic groups was calculated.ResultsABO and RhD blood distribution was significantly different among nine ethnic groups (PConclusionABO and RhD blood phenotypes vary across different ethnic groups in China. The diversity in the distribution of the ABO and RhD blood groups in different ethnic groups should be considered when developing rational and evidence-based strategies for blood collection and management.