What's happened
Recent reports highlight a resurgence of scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency, particularly among low-income individuals. A case in Western Australia illustrates how financial constraints can lead to dietary neglect, raising concerns about nutritional health in modern society.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Independent reported on a case in Western Australia where a 51-year-old man developed scurvy due to financial constraints limiting his access to fresh produce. Dr. Andrew Dermawan noted, 'Scurvy is a re-emerging disease with the rising cost of living.' Metro highlighted that scurvy cases have tripled since 2007, attributing this to poor diets and the cost of living crisis. The Guardian emphasized the importance of recognizing scurvy as a current health issue, stating, 'It’s not something that I expected to come up in today’s time.' These sources collectively underscore the need for increased awareness and action regarding nutritional health.
How we got here
Scurvy, historically associated with sailors, is caused by a lack of vitamin C. Recent studies indicate a troubling increase in cases, particularly among those with limited access to nutritious food, exacerbated by rising living costs and dietary neglect.
More on these topics
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Western Australia is a state occupying the western 32.9 percent of the land area of Australia excluding external territories. It is bounded by the Indian Ocean to the north and west, and the Southern Ocean to the south, the Northern Territory to the north