Ink of Sacrifice

For certain individuals, the term "blood" induces nervousness and trepidation due to associations with thrillers and self-preservation instincts. However, let us imagine blood as the most unique and precious fuel in the world. As you may be aware, there are four major blood groups: A, B, AB, and O. Further, blood can be classified as either Rh-positive if it contains the Rh protein, or Rh-negative if it lacks this protein. This distinction holds significance, but who conceived the idea to categorize blood in such a manner? Let us delve into this topic.

Remarkably, knowledge about blood groups emerged only at the beginning of the 20th century. Before that, medical experts believed that all blood was uniform across individuals and species. Notably, in the 17th century, medical practitioners began experimenting with blood transfusions in a bid to save lives. While some of these attempts yielded success, there were instances where the recipient's body rejected the donor's blood. It was in the late 1800s that scientists began to mix blood samples in test tubes and observed the formation of blood clots. However, this phenomenon wasn't initially given much attention.

Dr. Carl Landsteiner, later recognized for his contributions, perceived the significance of this clotting process. He conducted his own investigations, isolating red blood cells from one individual's plasma and combining them with another's. Landsteiner noted that clotting occurred when specific combinations of blood were mixed. This observation prompted him to conduct further tests, distinguishing between blood types that clotted and those that did not. The risk of blood clotting during transfusions posed a serious challenge. If an individual received a blood type that didn't match their own, these clots could impede normal blood circulation, akin to the inability to charge an iPhone with an Android cable. Such errors resulted in tragic consequences.

Over time, researchers discovered that the variance in blood types could be attributed to the number of molecules present on the surface of red blood cells. For example, the B blood group contains two components: the H antigen and another antigen, while the O blood group comprises a single part with the H antigen. When an individual's immune system detects foreign blood circulating within their body, it triggers an aggressive immune response. Additionally, a remarkable blood group known as Rh-null has no H and A antigens on its red blood cells. This blood type can be universally compatible, as it doesn't provoke adverse reactions from the recipient's immune system. However, this rarity poses challenges for those who possess it.

Around 50 individuals worldwide are identified with the RH-null blood group. This blood variant stems from a genetic mutation, resulting in certain health issues, such as rapid destruction of red blood cells, leading to impaired oxygen transport through the body. While this unique blood type can save lives, it also presents specific disadvantages for its carriers. But why is human blood so diverse?

Naturopath Peter D'Adamo proposed an intriguing theory in his book, suggesting that blood types are influenced by evolution. For instance, blood type O might have originated in our ancient African ancestors who were hunters, while type A emerged with the advent of agriculture due to a shift towards plant-based diets. Type B is believed to have developed in the Himalayan region, around 10,000 to 15,000 years ago. The AB type, in this context, represents a fusion of the A and B groups. D'Adamo even advocated personalized diets based on blood types, advocating more meat consumption for some and vegetarianism for others. However, subsequent research has largely debunked the effectiveness of such a diet. Moving on to additional facts about blood, approximately 7% of one's body weight comprises blood. Apart from red blood cells, the presence of white blood cells is notable, which play a pivotal role in disease resistance and tissue repair. These cells are integral to our immune system, originating in the bone marrow. Additionally, platelets, produced in the bone marrow, facilitate blood clotting to prevent excessive bleeding. These components collectively contribute to the intricate functioning of our circulatory system.

Blood plasma, the liquid component, is responsible for transporting a variety of substances throughout the body, including proteins, antibodies, salts, enzymes, trace elements, and water. Even the color of one's blood can be influenced by factors like diet or medications, resulting in temporary alterations such as a greenish-black hue. Notably, substances detrimental to blood plasma can compromise the efficiency of platelets, impairing their function. The kidneys, akin to filters, play a crucial role by purifying blood from harmful elements. They process around 50 gallons of blood daily, maintain red blood cell production, and regulate oxygen levels. The concept of blood pressure comes into play as well, denoting the force exerted by blood against vessel walls. Factors like vessel constriction and heart rate influence this pressure.

The blood donation industry in the U.S. generates a substantial $4.5 billion annually. The first blood donation center was established in Chicago in 1936. Every seven seconds, someone around the world requires a blood transfusion, with a single pint of blood potentially saving three lives. Astonishingly, nearly every seventh hospital patient necessitates a blood transfusion. However, to donate blood, one must undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation and tests to ensure the absence of diseases. Although the body rapidly replenishes the volume of donated blood within hours, the restoration of red blood cell count takes approximately a month, and iron levels recover over two months. Consequently, donating blood twice within a two-month interval is discouraged.

In Japan, blood type is often regarded as a personality indicator, with a market offering products tailored to blood types. This notion is reminiscent of astrology. Additionally, around 160,000 gallons of blood are discarded yearly due to non-utilization. The shelf life of blood is 42 days. Interestingly, if the veins in the human body were stretched into a single line, it would surpass the Earth's circumference by 2.5 times, spanning 25,000 miles.

Notably, not all living organisms possess red blood. Creatures like shellfish, insects, squids, and octopuses showcase diverse blood colors such as blue or green due to distinct respiratory pigments. Conversely, human and vertebrate blood is red, attributed to hemoglobin, a respiratory protein responsible for transporting oxygen through the circulatory system. Moreover, human blood contains various trace metals including iron, chromium, manganese, zinc, lead, copper, and even minuscule amounts of gold, essential for normal bodily function.