What diseases are caused by lack of food?

Several diseases can arise due to a lack of food or inadequate nutrition, which is often a result of poverty, unequal food distribution, and limited access to nutritious food sources. These conditions are more commonly found in low-income and underprivileged communities. Here are some diseases associated with a lack of food:

1. Marasmus:

- A severe form of malnutrition characterized by extreme wasting and depletion of body fat, muscle tissue, and glycogen stores.

- Occurs when there is an overall deficiency of nutrients and calories in the diet.

2. Kwashiorkor:

- A malnutrition condition mainly caused by a deficiency of protein while there may be enough calories from carbohydrates in the diet.

- Symptoms include edema (swelling) in the face, legs, and feet, along with stunted growth, skin discoloration, and liver damage.

3. Scurvy:

- Caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin C.

- Leads to bleeding gums, skin problems, weakness, and impaired wound healing.

4. Beriberi:

- A group of diseases caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency.

- Wet beriberi affects the cardiovascular system, causing symptoms like rapid heart rate, fluid retention, and edema, while dry beriberi affects the nervous system, leading to muscle weakness, confusion, and speech difficulties.

5. Pellagra:

- Occurs due to a deficiency of niacin (vitamin B3) and, in severe cases, tryptophan, an amino acid that can be converted to niacin.

- Symptoms include skin lesions, digestive problems, and dementia, forming the classic "3 Ds" of pellagra (Dermatitis, Diarrhea, Dementia).

6. Night Blindness (Vitamin A Deficiency):

- Caused by a deficiency of vitamin A, leading to impaired vision in low light conditions.

7. Rickets (Vitamin D Deficiency):

- Found in children and adolescents, it is caused by a lack of vitamin D, resulting in soft and weakened bones, leading to skeletal deformities.

8. Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDDs):

- Result from inadequate iodine intake, primarily affecting thyroid function.

- Can lead to goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland), intellectual disabilities, and developmental problems.

9. Iron-Deficiency Anemia:

- Occurs due to low levels of iron in the body.

- Causes fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.

It's crucial to note that prevention and treatment of these diseases often involve addressing underlying social, economic, and political factors to ensure adequate food access and availability.