What does the prefix “hemo-” mean?

The prefix “hemo-” or “hema-” refers to blood. It originates from the Greek word haima, meaning blood. It appears in many medical terms like hemoglobin (the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells), hematology (the study of blood), and hemorrhage (excessive bleeding). The prefix highlights conditions, functions, or substances related to the circulatory system. Blood is essential for transporting oxygen, nutrients, and hormones throughout the body, as well as removing waste products. Understanding “hemo-” helps decode medical vocabulary, making it easier to recognize terms that deal with blood-related diseases or diagnostic procedures.