8 Rarest Blood Groups In The World

5 August, 2025

Fewer than 50 people worldwide have it; it lacks all 61 Rh antigens. Universal donor for Rh types, but can only receive from another Rh-null. Considered the “Golden Blood” for its life-saving potential in rare transfusions.

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Rh-null ("Golden Blood")

Rarity - 1 in a million globally (more common in parts of India: \~1 in 10,000); it lacks the H antigen. People can only receive blood from another Bombay blood group donor.

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Bombay Blood Group (hh phenotype)

<1% of the global population; AB is already the rarest ABO type, and Rh-negative makes it even rarer; Universal plasma donor; limited red cell donors.

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AB Negative (AB–)

Rarity- 1.5–2% globally; it is Less common than O and A; Rh-negative status adds to rarity. Can donate to B– and AB–; limited pool of donors.

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B Negative (B–)

2% globally; Fairly rare due to Rh-negative status. Can donate to A– and AB–.

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A Negative (A–)

Available 3–4% globally. AB is rare, though Rh-positive is more common. Universal recipient for red blood cells, but very limited plasma donation usage.

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AB Positive (AB+)

8% globally; Though not extremely rare, it’s still one of the less common types globally; Can donate to B+ and AB+.

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B Positive (B+)

Extremely rare (depends on ethnic background and mutation); Lacks specific blood group antigens beyond ABO/Rh, often due to rare genetic traits. Crucial in cases of multiple transfusions or specific immune reactions.

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Atypical Antigen-Negative Blood (e.g., Duffy-null, Kell-null, etc.)