State the causes of scurvy and rickets

SouravNovember 14, 2024

Answer

Scurvy and rickets are both nutritional deficiencies that arise from a lack of essential vitamins and minerals in the diet. Here’s a detailed overview of their causes:

Scurvy

• Cause: Scurvy is primarily caused by a deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Humans cannot synthesize vitamin C, so it must be obtained through dietary sources. A lack of vitamin C leads to impaired collagen synthesis, which is crucial for maintaining healthy connective tissues, skin, blood vessels, and bones.
• Contributing Factors:
  • Poor Diet: Insufficient intake of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in vitamin C.
  • Mental Health Issues: Conditions such as depression or anorexia can lead to reduced food intake.
  • Substance Abuse: Alcohol and drug dependency can affect dietary choices and nutrient absorption.
  • Age: Older adults may have dietary restrictions or limited access to fresh produce.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Increased nutritional needs during these periods can lead to deficiencies if not met.

Rickets

• Cause: Rickets is primarily caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, although deficiencies in calcium or phosphate can also contribute. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone mineralization.
• Contributing Factors:
  • Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate dietary intake of vitamin D (found in fatty fish, fortified foods) or calcium (found in dairy products).
  • Limited Sun Exposure: Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight. Factors such as living at high latitudes, having darker skin, or excessive use of sunscreen can reduce vitamin D production.
  • Breastfeeding Practices: Exclusively breastfed infants may be at risk if the mother has low vitamin D levels or if breast milk does not provide sufficient vitamin D.
  • Genetic Factors: Certain inherited conditions can affect the metabolism of vitamin D, leading to rickets despite adequate dietary intake.
  • Malabsorption Syndromes: Conditions like celiac disease or cystic fibrosis can impair nutrient absorption, contributing to deficiencies.