CONCLUSION
The ABO blood type was an independent predictor of COVID-19 infection
and severity but not the disease outcomes. Blood type A increased the
risk of developing COVID-19 infection as well as the risk of
asymptomatic-to-mild and severe-to-critical forms of COVID-19. In
contrast, the risk of COVID-19 infection and moderate COVID-19 was lower
among blood type O.
The results of this study offer theoretical and clinical implications.
Theoretically, this study contributes to the growing knowledge on
COVID-19 and disease outcomes among Filipinos. Noting that race and
ethnicity can affect disease predisposition, disease outcomes, and blood
type, understanding these risks is imperative for clinical practice and
policy development. On an applied level, understanding the risk of
COVID-19 infection and severity across ABO blood type can assist medical
professionals in identifying the population-at-risk and develop programs
and interventions for risk minimization. Understanding that blood type A
increases the risk for COVID-19 infection and its severe forms can
implore healthcare professionals to become more vigilant in their
medical management of this population. Although this knowledge does not
replace the precautionary measures and therapeutic approaches against
COVID-19 infection, this information can educate the general Filipino
population of their potential risk thus, may promote adherence to
precautionary measures and protective health-seeking behaviors against
COVID-19.