Abstract

Moses D. Lugos (FMLSCN, MSc, PhD), Umanka Y. Polit (BMLS, AMLSCN), Ogbonnaya U. Nnanna (FMLSCN, MMLS), Naancin I. Vwamdem (BMLS, AMLSCN), *James G. Damen (FMLSCN, MSc, PhD)

ABSTRACT

Background: ABO and Rhesus blood group antigens are inherited genetic markers in human blood. Haemoglobin is an efficient transporter of oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs for exhalation. The Availability of data on the distribution of these genetic markers in central Nigeria would help in the planning and management of patients with related disorders. Aim: This study is designed to determine the distribution of haemoglobin genotype, ABO and Rhesus blood groups among pregnant women that are crucial information for the control of hereditary erythrocytic disorders. Method: The blood samples of 222 pregnant women attending the Antenatal clinic in Plateau State Specialist Hospital, Jos between April to June, 2013 were collected and their haemoglobin genotypes were determined using cellulose acetate electrophoresis at alkaline (Tris EDTA) buffer pH 8.6; ABO and Rhesus blood groups were determined by a standard tube method. Results: A total of 222 subjects were screened for haemoglobin genotype, ABO and Rhesus (D) blood groups. The distribution of haemoglobin genotypes were 164 (73.9%) for HbAA and 58 (26.1%) for HbAS. The frequencies of ABO blood groups among the study population were 41 (18.5%), 50 (22.5%), 12 (5.4%) and 119 (52.6%) for blood group A, B, AB, and O respectively. Also, the distribution of Rhesus (D) positive and Rhesus (D) negative were reported as 203 (91.4%) and 19 (8.6%) each. There was no association between ABO, Rhesus (D) and Hb genotypes observed. Data revealed that Rhesus (D) positive pregnant women were statistically higher in number compared to the Rhesus (D) negative women (p=0.000). Conclusion: The determination of the distribution of haemoglobin genotypes, ABO and Rhesus blood groups with a frequent review is essential in patients’ management and control policy.