Components of Blood

• Plasma: The liquid component of blood, consisting mainly of water, and also containing proteins, electrolytes, and waste products.
• Red Blood Cells (RBCs): Cells that contain hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
• White Blood Cells (WBCs): Cells that are part of the immune system and help the body fight infections and foreign substances.
• Platelets: Cell fragments that help in blood clotting to prevent excessive bleeding.

Functions of Blood

• Transportation: Blood carries oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products to and from cells throughout the body.
• Regulation: It helps maintain body temperature, pH balance, and fluid balance in the body.
• Protection: White blood cells in the blood help defend the body against infections, while platelets aid in blood clotting to prevent excessive bleeding.

Blood Types

Blood is categorized into different types based on the presence or absence of certain antigens on the surface of red blood cells. The main blood type classification is the ABO system, which includes blood types A, B, AB, and O. Additionally, the Rh factor (Rh-positive or Rh-negative) is also considered in blood typing.

Disorders and Diseases Related to Blood

Several disorders and diseases can affect the blood, including anemia (a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells), leukemia (a cancer of the blood-forming tissues), and hemophilia (a disorder that affects the blood's ability to clot).