What does the prefix 'hemo-' refer to?

The prefix 'hemo-' comes from the Greek word 'haima', which means blood. In medical terminology, this prefix is used to form words that relate to blood. For example, 'hemoglobin' refers to the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen, while 'hemorrhage' indicates excessive bleeding. The association of 'hemo-' with blood makes it a key term in medicine, particularly in contexts related to the circulatory system or conditions affecting blood. Understanding the meaning of this prefix is essential for comprehending a variety of medical terms and their implications in healthcare.