Correct Option
Xerophthalmia, a condition arising from severe vitamin A deficiency, represents a critical public health challenge in India. It predominantly affects children, leading to a spectrum of ocular manifestations including night blindness, conjunctival xerosis, and corneal ulceration. If left untreated, it can progress to irreversible blindness. Given its high prevalence among vulnerable populations and its significant contribution to child morbidity and mortality, addressing vitamin A deficiency through supplementation and dietary diversification programs is a top priority in national nutritional strategies.
Incorrect Options
Scurvy: This condition results from a deficiency of vitamin C. While historically significant, scurvy is now relatively uncommon in India due to the widespread availability and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, which are rich sources of vitamin C.
Rickets: Caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, rickets affects bone development. Although still observed, its prevalence has decreased significantly due to increased public awareness regarding sun exposure, fortified foods, and vitamin D supplementation initiatives, particularly for infants and young children.
Pellagra: This deficiency disease is caused by inadequate intake of niacin (vitamin B3). Pellagra was historically associated with diets heavily reliant on unprocessed maize. However, with the diversification of dietary patterns and improved nutritional understanding in India, pellagra is now considered rare.