Tag: Coxsackievirus

In the 1960s, extensive epidemiological studies conducted in China revealed a strong correlation between low selenium levels in local foods and the occurrence of Keshan disease. This critical research ultimately concluded that a selenium deficiency is the major nutritional cause behind this rare and life-threatening form of heart disease.

With mortality rates in severe historical outbreaks exceeding 98%, Keshan disease is a potentially fatal form of cardiomyopathy, and research confirms that a deficiency of the trace mineral selenium is its primary cause. This critical insight has been key to developing effective prevention strategies.

First discovered in China in 1935, Keshan disease is a serious form of endemic cardiomyopathy with historical mortality rates over 98% in some outbreaks, primarily linked to severe dietary selenium deficiency and viral co-factors. However, widespread selenium supplementation has dramatically reduced its incidence, shifting the primary clinical concern from acute fatalities to managing chronic and latent cases.

First identified in China during the 1930s, Keshan disease was ultimately linked to severe dietary selenium deficiency in affected populations. The pivotal role of selenium in Keshan disease is now understood to be a crucial element in preventing the cardiomyopathy that characterizes this illness.