Do Blood Types Differ Between Ethnic Groups?
Yes. For example, about 60 to 70 percent of the Hispanic population represent Type O blood — the blood type in greatest demand. Only about 45 percent of other ethnic groups are Type O. As our Hispanic population continues to increase, so does the need for Type O blood. Unless we have more Hispanic donors, it will be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to meet this need. Seasonal shortages of types O and B blood are common because they are in great demand. Many African-Americans have types O and B blood. Nearly 20% of all African-Americans have type B blood, compared to 11% of the Caucasian population. Blood type, like eye color, is an inherited trait. Some African-Americans have rare blood types that are unique to their ethnic group.
Yes. For example, about 60 percent of the Latino population is Group O, the blood type in greatest demand. Only about 45 percent of the population of other ethnic groups is Type O. Many African-Americans have Type O or B blood. Nearly 20 percent of all African-Americans have Type B, compared to 11 percent of the Caucasian population.
