Kwashiorkor: Definition, History, and Characteristics
Kwashiorkor is an acute form of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) caused by a lack of dietary protein. It is a serious and life-threatening condition that is most commonly seen in developing countries with scarce resources and limited access to nutrition. This article will discuss the definition, history, and characteristics of kwashiorkor.
Definition
Kwashiorkor is defined as a form of severe protein-energy malnutrition that is caused by a dietary deficiency of protein. It is characterized by an inability to use dietary proteins to meet bodily needs, resulting in an inability to perform daily activities and a decrease in overall physical and cognitive development. Additionally, symptoms include edema, anemia, dermatitis, fatty liver, and growth retardation.
History
The term “kwashiorkor” was first used in the 1930s by Dr. Cicely Williams, a physician in the Gold Coast, now known as Ghana. She noticed that children in the region who were malnourished did not suffer from marasmus, the traditional form of malnutrition, but instead displayed different symptoms. These children had swollen bellies, reddish-blond hair, and skin eruptions. She coined the term “kwashiorkor” from the local language, meaning “the sickness of the displaced”.
Characteristics
Kwashiorkor is a debilitating condition that has both physical and cognitive effects. Symptoms typically include edema, anemia, dermatitis, fatty liver, and growth retardation. Additionally, those affected may experience a decrease in physical strength, an inability to concentrate, and a decrease in intellectual development.
Conclusion
Kwashiorkor is a serious and life-threatening form of protein-energy malnutrition that affects millions of people in developing countries. It is caused by a lack of dietary protein and is characterized by physical and cognitive effects such as edema, anemia, dermatitis, fatty liver, and growth retardation. It is important to recognize and address this condition in order to reduce its prevalence and improve the health and quality of life of those affected.
References
Habich, M., & Krawinkel, M. (2006). Malnutrition: Causes, consequences, and management. New York, NY: Springer Science & Business Media.
Kaufmann, T., & Glaser, J. (2008). Kwashiorkor and marasmic kwashiorkor: The failure of protein-energy malnutrition to respond to therapeutic feeding. Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care, 11(3), 280-287. doi:10.1097/MCO.0b013e3282f48e90
Onyango, E. W., & Neumann, C. G. (2008). Kwashiorkor: A review of the history and etiology. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 88(6), 1702S-1706S. doi:10.1093/ajcn/88.6.1702S