Red Lifeline Hub Foundation

Saving Lives Together

Blood Type Compatibility

Learn about ABO and Rh blood group systems and check compatibility between donors and recipients.

1

ABO System

The ABO blood group system has four main types: O, A, B, and AB. These are determined by antigens on red blood cells.

Type O: No A or B antigens

Type A: Has A antigen

Type B: Has B antigen

Type AB: Has both A and B antigens

2

Rh Factor

The Rh factor is another important antigen. You're either Rh positive (+) if you have the antigen or Rh negative (-) if you don't.

Rh+: Has the Rh antigen (positive)

Rh-: Lacks the Rh antigen (negative)

3

Universal Types

O- is the universal donor, and AB+ is the universal recipient. This makes them critical in emergency situations.

O-: Can donate to everyone

AB+: Can receive from everyone

Check Compatibility

Compatible

O+ blood can be transfused to A+

Quick Reference

O+ Can Give To:

O+, A+, B+, AB+

A+ Can Receive From:

O+, O-, A+, A-

Complete Compatibility Matrix

DonorO+O-A+A-B+B-AB+AB-
O+
O-
A+
A-
B+
B-
AB+
AB-

Did You Know?

  • • Only 7% of the world's population has O- blood (universal donor)
  • • AB+ blood type is the rarest among most populations
  • • One pint of blood can save up to three lives
  • • Blood has a shelf life of only 42 days
  • • Donated blood is tested for multiple diseases before use

Important Facts

  • • Type O- blood is in highest demand in emergencies
  • • Rh incompatibility can occur during pregnancy
  • • Blood transfusions must be type-matched for safety
  • • Cross-matching tests ensure compatibility before transfusion
  • • A single donation can help multiple patients

Know your blood type? Help save lives today!