What rare blood types are found in Sarawak donors?

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Rare Blood Types Identified in Sarawak Donors Include Kidd Phenotype and Rh17

In Sarawak, blood donors have been found to possess rare blood types, notably the Kidd phenotype (Jk(a-b-)) and Rh17. The Kidd phenotype, specifically the Jk(a-b-) subtype, was identified in an Iban male donor from Sarawak. This specific blood type is found in less than 2% of donors across Malaysia. Additionally, the Rh17 blood type, which is also considered rare, has been observed among a small segment of the Bidayuh population in Sarawak.
Kidd Phenotype Blood Donors

A significant finding among Sarawak's donor pool is the identification of the Kidd blood group, specifically the Jk(a-b-) phenotype, in an Iban male donor. This particular subtype of the ABO blood group is uncommon, with fewer than 2% of Malaysian donors possessing it. Blood from such donors is not exclusively used within Sarawak; it has also been supplied to patients in Sabah and the National Blood Centre in Kuala Lumpur.
Rh17 Blood Type Prevalence

The Rh17 blood type represents another rare blood grouping found in Sarawak, primarily among the Bidayuh community. Historically, Sibu had one or two donors with this type, but lifestyle factors have impacted their ability to donate. When Rh17 blood is required, particularly for patients with conditions like Thalassemia, assistance is sought from the Sarawak General Hospital to locate suitable donors.
Importance of Blood Transfusion Specialists

The identification and optimisation of rare blood types for medical treatment underscore the need for more blood transfusion specialists in Sarawak. Currently, the state has a limited number of these specialists, with five serving across Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu, and Miri. An increase in specialists would enhance the capacity to screen and identify donors with special blood types, thereby improving the effectiveness of treatments both domestically and internationally.

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What rare blood types are found in Sarawak donors?

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