GROUP DISTRIBUTION

The Kell blood group system is one of the most clinically significant after ABO and Rhesus. Antibodies to Kell antigens are highly immunogenic and can cause haemolytic transfusion reactions and haemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). Despite its clinical importance, data on the distribution of Kell antigen among Nigerian pregnant women remain limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and distribution of the Kell blood group among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Central Hospital, Benin City, Edo State. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 pregnant women aged 18–43 years attending antenatal clinic at Central Hospital, Benin City. Blood samples were collected and tested for Kell antigen using the conventional tube method with commercially prepared anti-Kell reagents. Socio-demographic and obstetric data were obtained through structured questionnaires.The gestational age of the women in their first trimester were fourty-two(42), second trimester, fifty (50) and third trimester, eight(8) Of the 100 women studied, 2 (2.0%) were positive for the Kell antigen who were in their first and second trimester respectively. While 98 (98.0%) were negative.The Kell-positive phenotype was observed across both primigravidae and multigravidae with no statistically significant difference. The overall prevalence of Kell antigen in this cohort was consistent with reports from other populations in Nigeria and across Africa but considerably lower than values reported among Caucasians. In conclusion, the study demonstrated a low prevalence (2.0%) of Kell antigen among pregnant women in Central Hospital. Given the clinical significance of Kell antibodies in HDFN and transfusion reactions, routine screening of pregnant women for Kell antigen and the provision of Kell-negative blood for women of childbearing potential is strongly recommended to enhance safe obstetric and transfusion practices.