The question "Which of the following diseases is caused due to the deficiency of proteins?" presents four options: arthritis, kwashiorkor, goitre, and night blindness. Of these, Kwashiorkor is the correct answer, as it is a severe form of malnutrition caused directly by a lack of protein in the diet. Understanding why the other options are incorrect is key to grasping the specific role of protein in human health.
What is Kwashiorkor?
Kwashiorkor is a severe form of protein malnutrition, often observed in children who have been weaned from breast milk onto a starchy, high-carbohydrate, but low-protein diet. While the child may still receive calories, the lack of sufficient protein triggers a cascade of severe health problems. This condition is prevalent in developing nations experiencing food insecurity and famine.
Symptoms of Kwashiorkor
One of the most distinguishing features of Kwashiorkor is edema, or swelling, caused by fluid retention. This is because protein, specifically albumin, is crucial for maintaining osmotic pressure in the bloodstream. A deficiency leads to fluid leaking into body tissues. The symptoms can be quite visible and include:
- Bloated Abdomen and Swollen Limbs: The edema often causes the ankles, feet, and abdomen to swell, creating a misleading appearance of being well-fed despite severe malnutrition.
- Muscle Wasting: Despite the swelling, the child's limbs are often emaciated due to a severe loss of muscle mass.
- Skin and Hair Changes: The skin can become dry, flaky, or develop rashes, while hair may become sparse, brittle, and lose its pigment, sometimes developing a reddish or yellowish color.
- Fatigue and Irritability: Affected children often exhibit lethargy, apathy, and irritability.
- Stunted Growth: Kwashiorkor significantly impairs a child's growth and development.
- Weakened Immune System: A compromised immune system leads to more frequent and severe infections.
Disproving the Other Options
Arthritis is a Joint Condition
Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain and stiffness. There are over 100 different types, with the most common being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Osteoarthritis: Caused by the natural wear-and-tear of a joint's cartilage over time.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. Neither type of arthritis is caused by a protein deficiency. While a healthy diet with adequate protein supports overall joint health, a lack of protein is not the root cause of the condition.
Goitre is Caused by Iodine Deficiency
Goitre is the irregular growth or enlargement of the thyroid gland, located at the base of the neck. The most common cause worldwide is a deficiency of iodine, a mineral essential for producing thyroid hormones. With insufficient iodine, the thyroid gland swells in an attempt to produce more hormones. While autoimmune disorders like Graves' disease or Hashimoto's can also cause goitre, it has no link to a deficiency of protein.
Night Blindness is Linked to Vitamin A
Night blindness, or nyctalopia, is a condition where a person has difficulty seeing in low light or darkness. The most common cause is a deficiency of Vitamin A, which is essential for producing rhodopsin, the light-sensitive pigment in the eye's retina. Other causes can include genetic conditions like retinitis pigmentosa or cataracts. It is not caused by a protein deficiency.
Comparison of Nutritional Deficiencies
To further differentiate, here is a comparative table of the diseases mentioned:
| Disease | Primary Cause | Key Symptoms | Affected System |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kwashiorkor | Severe Protein Deficiency | Edema (swelling), distended belly, muscle wasting, skin/hair changes | Multi-organ, Severe Malnutrition |
| Arthritis | Joint Inflammation (Autoimmune, Wear-and-Tear, etc.) | Joint pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion | Musculoskeletal |
| Goitre | Iodine Deficiency (most common) | Swollen thyroid gland in the neck, feeling of tightness | Endocrine |
| Night Blindness | Vitamin A Deficiency (most common) | Impaired vision in low light, difficulty adjusting to darkness | Ocular (Visual) |
Treatment and Prevention of Kwashiorkor
Treatment for Kwashiorkor focuses on gradually and carefully restoring a healthy diet. The World Health Organization (WHO) outlines a phased approach to prevent complications like refeeding syndrome. Initially, the focus is on stabilizing the patient, treating infections, and correcting electrolyte imbalances. High-calorie, low-protein diets are introduced first, with protein intake gradually increased as the patient recovers. Long-term prevention involves ensuring a consistent supply of a balanced, nutritious diet rich in protein, as well as education on proper nutrition and hygiene.
Conclusion: A Balanced Diet is Key
While a variety of factors can cause the diseases listed, only Kwashiorkor is directly caused by a severe deficiency of protein. The question clearly highlights the importance of specific nutrients for proper bodily function. Protein is the building block for tissues and crucial for countless biological processes, but minerals like iodine and vitamins like Vitamin A are equally essential for preventing other distinct conditions. Ensuring access to a varied and balanced diet remains the cornerstone of preventing such nutritional disorders. For more information on Kwashiorkor and malnutrition, authoritative sources like the Cleveland Clinic provide comprehensive details.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
