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Conditions Encyclopedia Entry 1777261985

** **Rickets** is a disease caused by a lack of **vitamin D**, leading to softening of the bones in children, and is often associated with inadequate nutrition, limited sunlight exposure, and genetic predisposition. ## Overview Rickets is a disorder that affects the development of bones in children, causing them to become soft and weak. This condition is characterized by an abnormal growth of cartilage and bone, which can lead to deformities and other complications. Rickets is a preventable disease, and its occurrence is often linked to inadequate nutrition, limited sunlight exposure, and genetic predisposition. In the 19th century, rickets was a common problem in urban areas, particularly among children from low-income families who had limited access to fresh fruits and vegetables rich in **vitamin D**. The symptoms of rickets can vary depending on the severity of the condition. In its early stages, rickets may not be noticeable, but as the disease progresses, children may experience a range of symptoms, including bowed legs, stunted growth, and a softening of the bones. In severe cases, rickets can lead to a range of complications, including **osteomalacia**, **osteoporosis**, and an increased risk of fractures. ## History/Background Rickets has been a known condition for centuries, with the first recorded cases dating back to ancient civilizations in Egypt and Greece. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the disease became a major public health concern in urban areas. In the 1850s, the British physician **Edward Johnstone** first described the condition, and in the late 19th century, the term "rachitis" was coined to describe the disease. The discovery of **vitamin D** in the early 20th century revolutionized the understanding and treatment of rickets. In 1922, the American biochemist **Elmer McCollum** isolated vitamin D from **cod liver oil**, and in the 1930s, the first **vitamin D** supplements were developed. Since then, rickets has become a rare condition in developed countries, where access to **vitamin D**-rich foods and sunlight is widespread. ## Key Information Rickets is caused by a lack of **vitamin D**, which is essential for the absorption of **calcium** and **phosphorus** from food. **Vitamin D** is obtained through exposure to sunlight, which triggers the production of **vitamin D** in the skin. It can also be obtained through a diet rich in **vitamin D**-fortified foods, such as milk and cereals. In addition to **vitamin D** deficiency, rickets can also be caused by other factors, including: * **Genetic predisposition**: Some children may be born with a genetic condition that affects their ability to absorb **vitamin D**. * **Inadequate nutrition**: A diet that is deficient in **vitamin D**-rich foods can increase the risk of rickets. * **Limited sunlight exposure**: Children who spend most of their time indoors, particularly during the winter months, may be at risk of developing rickets. ## Significance Rickets is a preventable disease, and its occurrence is often linked to socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and limited access to healthcare. In developed countries, rickets is a rare condition, but in developing countries, it remains a significant public health concern. The discovery of **vitamin D** and the development of **vitamin D** supplements have revolutionized the treatment of rickets. Today, rickets is often treated with **vitamin D** supplements, which can help to prevent the disease and its complications. INFOBOX: - Name: Rickets - Type: Disease - Date: 1850s (first recorded cases) - Location: Global - Known For: Softening of the bones in children due to **vitamin D** deficiency TAGS: **Vitamin D**, **Rickets**, **Osteomalacia**, **Osteoporosis**, **Calcium**, **Phosphorus**, **Nutrition**, **Public Health**