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Scurvy is a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C, character-
ized by swollen bleeding gums. People of all age groups can suffer
from this problem. Swollen and bleeding gums, tooth pain and teeth
fall out, no appetite, and feeling tired and weak are the symptoms
of scurvy. It causes delayed wound healing. The problem of anemia
can be seen in the body.

One should eatvitamin C-richfood items regularly such as lemon,
guava, nlango, orange, amla, and tomato to prevent hiln or her from
scurvy. One should take special care of the teeth and gums to keep
then1 clean. Scurvy should be treated on time if any symptoms are
seen.Awareness programmes should be launched in the community.

D. Rickets

Rickets is caused by vitamin D deficiency. Our body needs an ad-
equate amount of calcium and phosphorus for the growth and de-
velopment of the bones. Vitamin Dabsorbs calcium and phospho-
rus from the food. If vitamin D lacksin the body, the body cannot
absorb calcium and phosphorus. We can notice different signs and
symptoms of rickets. The legs seem bowed or curved. There is pain
in the bones of the knees and spinal cord. It delays the growth and
development of the body. The shape of the ribs and breastbone seem
unusual. The joints of elbows and writs become wide.

We can apply different preventive measures to avoid this problem.
We should consume food items regularly which are rich in vitamin
D.Yellowportions of an egg, milk, fish, butter, beans, and green vege-
tables are vitamin D-rich food items. We can also get vitamin D from
sunlight. Cholesterol in the skin absorbs the radiation and converts
it into vitamin D. Therefore, we need to expose a sufficient amount
of skin to sunlight. If we notice a problem in the shape and develop-
ment of the bones, we should consult the doctor and make the treatment.
Activity 3.3
List the malnutrition diseases in the chart paper using the given ta-
ble and present it in the class.

S. N. Name of the disease Causes Symptoms Preventive Measures

38 Health, Physical ai1d Creillive arts, grade 8