Distribution of ABO and Rhesus (RHD) blood groups among blood donors in Republic of Congo

Abstract

Aims: The ABO and Rhesus (Rh) blood group systems are most important in population genetic study and for blood transfusion purposes. This study was conducted to determine the distribution of ABO and Rh blood groups among Congolese blood donors. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted at National Center for Blood Transfusion, over a period of 5 years from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2015. This study included the blood transfusion centers of Brazzaville, Pointe Noire and other localities grouped together in the North and Southwest coordination. Blood grouping ABO and Rhesus were determined using conventional blood typing procedures based on Beth-Vincent and Simonin-Michon methods. Results: Out of 266,055 blood donors included, 217,990 (81.9%) were male and 48,065 (18.1%) were female donors. Most donors were young adults, representing the age group of 18–30 (45%). The majority were replacement (62.4%) while the remainder was voluntary donors (37.6%). The most prevalent blood group was O (56.6%), followed by blood groups A (20.3%) and B (20.1%), whereas the least prevalent blood group was AB (2.9%). The majority 97.6% were Rh D positive, and 2.4% were Rh D negative. Conclusion: The study has a significant implication regarding the inventory management of blood transfusion center in Republic of Congo.