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Why Group O Blood Is So Important

No matter your blood type, it's important to remember that your blood is needed to save lives. That said, there's one blood group that is regularly in short supply and high demand: group O.

Why O+ and O- blood types are important

If your blood type is O positive or O negative, you've probably heard that your blood is vitally important for the maintenance of a healthy blood supply. But why? The reasons differ but before delving into the specifics, know that the rumors are true: O donors are rockstars!

People with group O blood, like those with A, B, or AB blood, have a positive or negative signifier attached to their letter that is determined by Rh antigens attached to the body's red blood cells. Those antigens result in those with O blood either being O positive or O negative.

O Positive (O+) Blood Basics

O positive is the most common of all blood types, with nearly 40 percent of the U.S. population having it. What does that mean our O positive blood donors? Your blood can help so many people!

For more on what your blood means for you and the patients who need it, visit our O positive blood types page.

O Positive Blood Facts Donate Today

O Negative (O-) Blood Basics

O negative blood is much more rare than O positive blood and those who have it are considered "universal blood donors." Why? Because O negative blood can be used in transfusions for any blood type. That incredible versatility makes every O negative donation precious.

Ready to make a difference, O negative donors? Consider giving blood today. Want to learn more about your blood type, visit our resource page below.

O Negative Blood Facts Donate Today

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Group O blood marketing toolkit

Use the resources below to help demonstrate the need for Group O blood donors and spread the word about giving blood. Every post and email you share will contribute to lives being saved.

Also, make sure to follow Our Blood Institute on Facebook (Our Blood Institute), X (@OurBloodInst) and Instagram (@ourbloodinstitute).

Access the toolkit now

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