Blood types 101

Dr. Gott: For the past 20 years, my type-A blood cells have been running 3.1 to 3.6, which I am told is low. When I question my doctors about it, they don’t offer much response. I am 75 years old. I had a kidney removed about 10 years ago because of cancer. I did not need chemo or radiation. My diet consists of healthful foods and a lot of ocean fish and not too much red meat.

I recently had a couple of precancerous lumps on my head removed and treated. They healed well.

Lately, any cuts I get, whether they are big or small, seem to get infected. I am not diabetic, and my weight is normal. Is there a cause for low A cells? Is there something I can do make them rise?

Dear Reader: First, I must explain what type-A blood means, as you appear to be confused. Type A simply refers to your blood type. There are four blood types: A, B, AB and O.

Now, to your blood-cell number of 3.1 to 3.6. I assume this is referring to your red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the various parts of the body. When red blood cell counts are low, it is known as anemia. There are several causes for this. However, based on your letter, I believe your anemia is simply due to a lack of iron in your diet. Iron is found in several foods but is abundant in red meat, which you say you rarely consume. I urge you to speak to your physician about this and ask whether he or she agrees that an iron supplement is appropriate. This should eliminate the anemia. If it does not, I recommend further testing. If your physician refuses, ask to be referred to a hematologist (blood specialist), who can perform further testing and recommend treatment.