Vitamin A Deficiency

Vitamin A Deficiency Vitamin A deficiency is a condition that occurs when there is insufficient vitamin A in the body. This essential nutrient is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Vitamin A deficiency is a significant public health issue, particularly in developing countries.

Causes

Vitamin A deficiency can result from inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption disorders, or increased physiological needs.

Dietary Causes

A diet lacking in foods rich in vitamin A, such as liver, fish oils, and leafy green vegetables, can lead to deficiency.

Malabsorption

Conditions such as Celiac Disease or Cystic Fibrosis can impair the absorption of vitamin A from the gastrointestinal tract.

Increased Needs

Pregnant and lactating women, as well as children, have increased requirements for vitamin A, making them more susceptible to deficiency.

Symptoms

The symptoms of vitamin A deficiency can vary but often include:

• Night blindness
• Dry eyes (xerophthalmia)
• Increased susceptibility to infections
• Skin issues such as hyperkeratosis

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of vitamin A deficiency is typically based on clinical signs and symptoms, dietary assessment, and blood tests measuring serum retinol levels.

Treatment

Treatment involves supplementation with vitamin A, either orally or through injections, depending on the severity of the deficiency.

Prevention

Prevention strategies include:

• Dietary diversification to include vitamin A-rich foods
• Fortification of staple foods with vitamin A
• Public health interventions such as vitamin A supplementation programs

Epidemiology

Vitamin A deficiency is most prevalent in Africa and Southeast Asia, affecting millions of children and pregnant women.

See Also

• Micronutrient Deficiency
• Public Health
• Nutrition

External Links

• [World Health Organization - Vitamin A Deficiency](https://www.who.int/health-topics/vitamin-a-deficiency)
• [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Vitamin A](https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/micronutrient-malnutrition/micronutrients/vitamin-a.html)

NIH genetic and rare disease info

• NIH info on Vitamin A Deficiency

Vitamin A Deficiency is a rare disease.