14/12/2022
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW YOUR GENOTYPE AND BLOOD GROUP COMPATIBILITY?
What is a Genotype?
A genotype is the entire genetic constitution of an individual, i.e. the genetic makeup of an organism or group of organisms with reference to a single trait, set of traits, or an entire complex of traits.
There are four hemoglobin genotype in humans:
~ AA, AS, SS and AC (uncommon).
~ SS and AC are the abnormal genotypes or the sickle cells.
We all have a specific pair of these hemoglobin in our blood which we inherited from both parents.
What is a Blood Group?
This is the classification of blood, based on the presence and absence of antibodies and inherited antigenic substances on the surface of red blood cells.
There are four blood GROUPS:
~ Type A (marker A)
~ Type B (marker B)
~ Type AB (blood cells have both A and B markers)
~ Type O (blood cells have neither A or B markers)
IT'S IMPORTANCE
Knowing one's hemoglobin genotype before choosing a life partner is important because there may be compatibility issues which could have devastating effects when it comes to conception.
Individuals with sickle cells experience severe pains in body parts where oxygen flow is compromised due to blockage in the blood vessels.
It is also important to know your blood type if you need a blood transfusion or if you want to donate blood. It also plays a role in determining paternity. Before a blood transfusion takes place it must be established that the donor’s blood type is compatible with the recipient’s blood type. The combination of certain antibodies (proteins protecting the body) can be harmful or even lead to fatal symptoms if antibodies perceive foreign cells as a threat. It is our immune systems’ way of protecting us.
Has a lot of benefits for both partners and the children they plan to have. Not only are they vital tests for preventing infection, they also save couples and their offspring the stress that comes with the management of sickle cell disease.
©BETA HEALTH
Do you know your Genotype & Blood group?
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