Childhood Scurvy Cases Triple in the US, Nutritional Deficiency Could Be a Reason

Experts warn of rising vitamin C deficiency risks.

Aleks Shutter/Shutterstock

Scurvy, a disease once associated with pirates and long sea voyages, is making an unexpected comeback among American children.

A recent study found that cases have more than tripled in just five years, suggesting a “troubling rise” in this diet-based disorder.

A ‘Troubling’ Return

A comprehensive review in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons analyzed data from almost 19.5 million pediatric patients from 2016 to 2020. The study, published in July, found scurvy incidence in children increased from 8.2 to 26.7 cases per 100,000. The average age of patients was just over 2 years.

Notably, nearly 65 percent of scurvy patients had autism spectrum disorder diagnoses. Obese males, particularly those economically disadvantaged, were at highest risk.

Story continues below advertisement

Scurvy can have severe health consequences, particularly for children, Dr. Anna Cornish, medical director of Ambulatory General Pediatrics at Staten Island Hospital, Northwell Health, told The Epoch Times.

“Vitamin C is crucial for collagen synthesis, which is essential for growth and development,” she said. “A deficiency can result in stunted growth and developmental delays.”

Vitamin C enhances iron absorption. Without it, children face a higher risk of iron-deficiency anemia, which leads to fatigue, weakness, and decreased cognitive function, Cornish added.

Scurvy symptoms include anemia, slow wound healing, swollen or bleeding gums, tooth loss, and subcutaneous bleeding.

Story continues below advertisement

Patients diagnosed with scurvy may also lack other nutrients. Therefore, screening for deficiencies in vitamin B12, folate, calcium, zinc, and iron is recommended, alongside evaluating vitamin C levels.

Scurvy Resurgence Signals Deeper Nutrition Crisis: Expert

“The resurgence of scurvy in the U.S., particularly among children, is alarming and indicates issues with nutrition and food security,” Emily Cardoza, a pediatric and neonatal dietitian at Staten Island University Hospital in New York, told The Epoch Times.

A robust public health strategy focusing on nutrition education, access to healthy foods, and addressing socioeconomic disparities is needed, she said.

Those with the lowest socioeconomic status are most vulnerable due to limited access to food, especially fresh fruits and vegetables—the richest sources of vitamin C, she added, noting the importance of referring patients to food banks and community programs to help families access resources for a balanced diet.

Nutrition deficiency is also seen among families that are not economically disadvantaged. “Many children are classified as ‘picky eaters’ or selective eaters,” Cardoza said. “They often consume diets high in carbohydrates and low in fruits and vegetables.”

Story continues below advertisement

“Early intervention is key,” according to Cornish. “Promptly addressing any signs of nutritional deficiencies with appropriate dietary advice and supplements can prevent the progression of scurvy and mitigate long-term consequences,” she said.

Cardoza noted that interventions may include nutrition education, counseling on vitamin C sources, recommending nutritional supplements, and considering daily multivitamins to ensure optimal nutrient intake for growth and development.

She also recommends interviewing a family using a dietary questionnaire, such as the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), to gain insight into the child’s eating habits, nutritional status, and deficiencies.

However, effectively combating this preventable disease requires a collaborative effort involving policymakers, community organizations, and educational institutions, she said.