IGCSE Biology 7 Views 1 Answers
State the causes of scurvy and rickets
State the causes of scurvy and rickets
Answered step-by-step
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.
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