Frequency Distribution of Hemoglobin Variants, ABO and Rhesus Blood Groups among Students of African Descent.
Loading...
Date
2011-04
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
Background: Hemoglobin variants, ABO and Rhesus blood groups are known to vary from
one population to another. This study therefore sought to study the frequency of these
indices among a cohort of Nigerian University students of African descent. The result will
serve as a platform for instituting genetic counseling services with a view to reducing
hemoglobinopathies.
Methods: Two hundred consenting students were recruited and screened for hemoglobin
variants by standard alkaline cellulose acetate electrophoresis. ABO and Rhesus blood
groups were determined by the hemagglutination technique.
Results: Of the 200 students aged 18 – 25 years that were screened, 123 (61.5%) were
males and 77 (38.5%) were females. Those with blood group O were the most prevalent
(45%) followed by groups A (25.5%), B (25%) and AB (3.5%). Only 2 genotypes HbAA
(78.5%) and HbAS (21.5%) were reported in this study. Rhesus D antigen was positive for
94% and negative for 6% of the study population.
Conclusion: The frequency of ABO and Rhesus blood groups appeared to be stable and
consistent with reports from previous studies in Nigeria. Blood group O was the most
prevalent. This also means there is a large pool of ‘’apparently’’ universal blood donors in
this population. There was only one genotype variant reported (HbAS). This could imply a
decline in hemoglobinopathies among Africans. Therefore the culture of genetic counseling
must be encouraged and sustained.
Description
Keywords
Frequency, blood groups, ABO, Rhesus, genotype, hemoglobinopathies
Citation
Pennap G R, Envoh E, Igbawua I. Frequency Distribution of Hemoglobin Variants, ABO and Rhesus Blood Groups among Students of African Descent. British Microbiology Research Journal. 2011 Apr; 1(2): 33-40.