Kwashiorkor is a disease caused by severe malnutrition that mainly affects children in developing countries. It was first identified in Ghana in the 1930s and is characterized by symptoms such as a swollen belly, lethargy, slow growth, and anemia. Proper diet and nutrition education can prevent and treat the condition.
Kwashiorkor is a disease that appears to be caused by severe malnutrition and mainly affects children. It is more common in developing nations, where famine conditions are more likely. Many people in developed countries are familiar with the disease, although they probably don’t know its specific name, because sufferers often feature in reports and news stories about malnutrition in developing countries.
The disease was first identified and described in the 1930s in Ghana. The word kwashiorkor comes from the Ga language which is widely spoken in many parts of that country. It literally means “one who is physically displaced,” a reference to the fact that the disease occurs in infants who have just been weaned from mother’s milk. When the disease is not addressed immediately, it can cause serious disability and, if left untreated, can lead to death.
Protein deficiency is an important aspect of this condition, although it doesn’t appear to be the only cause. While breastfeeding, babies receive a range of vital nutrients and amino acids through their mother’s milk. As long as a mother eats reasonably well, her child should stay healthy. Once a baby is weaned, however, a new source of these vital nutrients must be obtained. Unfortunately, many people in developing countries eat starchy diets, without the sources of protein and fresh fruits and vegetables they need.
One of the most characteristic symptoms of kwashiorkor is a swollen belly. Victims of the disease also suffer from lethargy, slow growth, anemia, edema, hair loss, and changes in hair and skin color. Many of these symptoms are common to a wide range of malnourished conditions and are often very familiar to aid workers in developing countries. However, the disease of malnutrition can also develop in first world countries, especially among poor and disadvantaged groups, together with the elderly.
Like other health problems caused by malnutrition, kwashiorkor can be avoided and treated with proper diet. In addition to eating a healthy, balanced diet, it’s also important for people to eat food that has been stored properly. Some research has suggested that this disease could be related to moldy or rotting food, as well as being caused by malnutrition. Many humanitarian organizations offer nutrition education and food or agricultural assistance grants to help prevent the condition.
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