How did the 1898 discovery of blood types most significantly impact society?

• A. It resulted in the discovery of antibiotics.
• B. It caused a decline in the use of vaccines.
• C. It enabled safer blood transfusions by matching compatible blood types.
• D. It led to the immediate eradication of all blood-borne diseases.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the historical context: The discovery of blood types in 1898 by Karl Landsteiner revealed that human blood is not identical and can be categorized into different groups (A, B, AB, and O). This was a groundbreaking finding in medicine.
2. Learn about the significance of blood compatibility: Before this discovery, blood transfusions were often fatal because incompatible blood types could cause severe immune reactions. Matching blood types enabled safer transfusions.
3. Recognize the societal impact: The ability to match blood types revolutionized medical practices, particularly in surgeries, trauma care, and childbirth, where blood transfusions are critical.
4. Clarify misconceptions: The discovery of blood types did not lead to the discovery of antibiotics, nor did it cause a decline in vaccine use or eradicate blood-borne diseases. These are unrelated developments in medical science.
5. Conclude with the correct answer: The most significant impact of the discovery of blood types was enabling safer blood transfusions by matching compatible blood types, which greatly improved patient outcomes and saved countless lives.