Which of the following is caused due to deficiency of protein?

• Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition caused by a significant deficiency of dietary protein.

• According to NCERT Class 6 and 9 Science, it typically affects children who are weaned from breast milk onto a diet high in carbohydrates but low in protein.

• Key symptoms include a distended or "pot-belly" appearance, thinning of hair, skin problems, and stunted growth.

• Proteins are essential for the growth and repair of body tissues; hence, their lack leads to muscle wasting and edema (fluid retention).

• It differs from Marasmus, which is caused by a deficiency of both proteins and total calories (carbohydrates and fats).

Information Booster:

• The term "Kwashiorkor" originates from the Ga language of Ghana, meaning "the sickness the baby gets when the new baby comes," referring to the weaning process.

• Treatment involves a gradual increase in protein intake and calories, often through fortified milk or specialized nutritional pastes.

Additional Knowledge:

Goiter (Option a) * Caused by a deficiency of Iodine in the diet.

• It results in the abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland located in the neck.

• Common in hilly regions where the soil and water are iodine-deficient.

Anemia (Option c) * Most commonly caused by a deficiency of Iron, which is necessary for the production of hemoglobin.

• Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen; its lack leads to fatigue and paleness.

• It can also be caused by deficiencies in Vitamin B12 or Folic Acid.

Bronchitis (Option d) * This is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs.

• Unlike the other options, it is not a deficiency disease; it is usually caused by viral infections, smoking, or environmental pollutants.