Scurvy Canada a growing issue on the rise especially among old women and low income household linked to food insecurity.
What is Scurvy?
It is a disease that results from the deficiency or the lack of vitamin consumption. Vitamin C is a natural essentiality for the body present in citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and vegetable such as broccoli and spinach.
Symptoms of this disease can be noted form the age of eight to twelve weeks due to insufficient levels and consumption of vitamin C. It consists of fatigue, patches of bruising, bleeding gums and hemorrhages making hair follicles appear bright red.
In the event the disease is left untreated, it can result in bleeding destroying red blood cells and death.
Scurvy a Growing Problem
According to the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) a report stated that a 65 year old woman was diagnosed with Scurvy. This has sparked concerns among medical practitioners to consider the possibility of this disease.
People with low income households, isolated adults and low socioeconomic backgrounds cannot afford sufficient food which hinders their intake of nutrients. Research suggests that this is a long standing and growing issue in the United States.
According to a study, 19 million children in the U.S have found to be diagnosed with Scurvy. During the last 4 years, cases have doubled. Health professionals are warned to remain vigilant of patient symptoms. And food insecurity can also heighten the issue of scurvy Canada.
Conclusion
Scurvy is a preventable disease. However, rising cases linked to food insecurity highlight the urgent need for better access to nutrition, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Key Points
- Scurvy is caused by a lack of vitamin C, commonly found in citrus fruits and vegetables like broccoli and spinach.
- Low-income households and isolated adults in Canada face a growing risk of scurvy due to food insecurity and poor nutrition.
- Medical professionals are urged to monitor patients for scurvy symptoms. Cases are increasing, especially among older women and low-income groups.
