YOU might assume that diseases which reigned during the Victorian era would have been wiped out by modern medicine But a few have made a worrying resurgence in recent years, one of those being the bone-deforming disease rickets
Think of Charles Dickens’ character Tiny Tim, whose crippled legs may have been caused by the condition, according to modern medics.
Though the disease was common in the past, it mostly disappeared in the western world during the early 20th century after foods like margarine and cereal were fortified with vitamin D.
Now, regions in the UK have reported a startling surge in rickets, with cases in spots such as East Kent increasing sharply over the last five years.
Rickets, once synonymous with poverty and poor diets in Victorian Britain, affects bone development in children, causing bone pain, stunted growth and soft, weak bones that can lead to deformities.
A lack of vitamin D – derived from sunlight and some foods – or calcium is the most common cause of the disease, though in rare cases children can be born with a genetic form of rickets.
Left untreated, the condition can also lead to an abnormally curved spine, dental defects and seizures.
East Kent Hospitals University NHS Trust – one of the largest in England – recorded 122 cases in 2019.
But by 2023, that figure had swelled to more than 580 – a 380 per cent increase – according to a Freedom of Information request.
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Figures released earlier this year show that 28,379 Brits were diagnosed with rickets between 2019 and 2023.
Poverty and malnutrition could be factors fuelling the rise in scurvy cases in East Kent, as some parts of Thanet are among the poorest in England – more than 20 per cent of its population make up the bottom 10 per cent of most deprived Brits, according to KentOnline.
Cases of Victorian disease that causes ‘sandpaper rash and killer complications’ surge 42% in a week – is your area affected
But the surge in cases might also be down to medics getting better at spotting the Victorian disease.
East Kent’s Chief Medical Officer Des Holden said: “We interpret that part of the increase is due to increased recognition and more accurate recording of rickets.
“Our neo-natal teams are robust in recommending vitamin D for babies at risk, including mothers who have low vitamin D.
“There is also increased awareness in our team to screen for vitamin D levels.
“For example, vitamin D screening is now included in our guidance for children with obesity as this group is at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency.
“Children with rickets may previously have been recorded as having vitamin D deficiency and treated appropriately, but we have improved recording in our coding systems that they meet criteria to diagnose rickets.”
NHS England figures show a sharp increase in hospital admissions for a vitamin D deficiency – from 31,576 admissions in 2013/14 to 188,114 last year – which can lead to the skeletal disorder if left untreated.
Sarah Calcutt, chief executive of City Harvest, a charity which wants to reduce food insecurity, said “There is a whole Dickensian list of diseases that come around because key food groups are missing from people’s diets.”
Vitamin D comes from exposing the skin to sunlight but is also found in foods such as oily fish, eggs and some cereals.
Any child who doesn’t get enough vitamin D or calcium – either through their diet, or from sunlight – can develop rickets.
But according to the NHS, it’s more common in children with dark skin, as they need more sunlight to get enough vitamin D, as well as children born prematurely or taking medication that interferes with vitamin D.
Previously, experts said the rising cost of living is likely to be behind the surge in rickets and scurvy – another Victorian era disease – as parents struggle to afford fruit and veg and are instead forced to buy cheaper junk food, which lacks vital vitamins and minerals.
PREVENTING RICKETS
Medway GP Dr Julian Spinks says people of all ages should follow the national guidance and take vitamin D supplements to avoid the entirely preventable condition.
“We thought we’d got rid of it. But it is now back,” he told KentOnline.
“There is a possibility if a pregnant woman is very deficient herself that the baby will be born with a relative lack of vitamin D.
“However in most cases it’s because they’re not actually getting enough vitamin D and the two main ways we get it in the UK are from sunlight – particularly from April to September – and from food.
“Definitely diet plays a part. If children are not eating things like oily fish or eggs or for example – breakfast cereals which are often supplemented with vitamin D – then this will have an effect.
“Whilst it’s a very small proportion of the population, it is worrying that this is making a comeback and it’s because it’s a very preventable condition.”
How to protect your child from rickets
YOU can help prevent rickets in your children by ensuring they:
Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in vitamin D, with foods like oily fish, red meat, eggs yolks and fortified cereals and spreads
Spend time in the sun between March and September (wearing sun cream prevents vitamin D absorption from the sun, but you should still apply it before skin starts to burn)
Take vitamin D supplements
Babies up to a year old need 8.5 to 10 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin D a day, unless they are fed 500ml or more of infant formula a day.
Children from the age of one to four should be given a daily supplement containing 10mcg of vitamin D.
Adults – including pregnant and breastfeeding women – also need 10mcg of vitamin D a day, at least between October and March.
How do I know id my child has rickets
The signs and symptoms of rickets can include:
Pain – the bones affected by rickets can be sore and painful, so the child may be reluctant to walk or may tire easily; the child’s walk may look different (waddling)
Skeletal deformities – thickening of the ankles, wrists and knees, bowed legs, soft skull bones and, rarely, bending of the spine
Dental problems – including weak tooth enamel, delay in teeth coming through and increased risk of cavities
Poor growth and development – if the skeleton doesn’t grow and develop properly, the child will be shorter than average
Fragile bones – in severe cases, the bones become weaker and more prone to fractures
Source: NHS
For most children, rickets can be successfully treated by ensuring they eat foods that contain calcium and vitamin D, or by taking vitamin supplements.
Some families are eligible for free vitamin supplements from the government’s Healthy Start scheme.
The scheme can also support cash-strapped households with buying healthy food and milk.
For those who are more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under four, and are eligible, a benefit card is topped up every four weeks to help with the purchase of fresh food.
The card can also be used to collect Healthy Start vitamins for pregnant and breastfeeding mums, as well as vitamin drops for babies and young children up to four years old.
Living longer and healthier often involves understanding how our genetic predispositions, including blood type, can influence our health outcomes. For individuals with blood type O, there are specific habits and lifestyle choices that, when avoided, can contribute to a longer and healthier life.
Blood type O is often referred to as the “hunter” blood type in the context of the blood type diet theory, which suggests that individuals with this blood type may benefit from a diet that resembles that of early humans who were primarily hunters and gatherers. While the scientific evidence supporting the blood type diet is limited and controversial, there are other health considerations that individuals with blood type O should keep in mind…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>
One of the most crucial factors for individuals with blood type O is maintaining a balanced diet. While specific diet plans may vary, it is generally recommended to avoid processed foods, particularly those high in sugars and unhealthy fats. Instead, focusing on a diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables can help support overall health and well-being. This dietary approach not only aligns with potential benefits suggested by the blood type diet but also with broader nutritional guidelines for promoting longevity.
Another important consideration for individuals with blood type O is regular physical activity. Engaging in regular exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also promotes cardiovascular health, strengthens bones and muscles, and improves overall mood and mental well-being. Activities such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or participating in sports can all contribute to a longer and healthier life.
In addition to diet and exercise, managing stress levels is essential for individuals with blood type O. High-stress levels can contribute to a range of health problems, including hypertension, digestive issues, and impaired immune function. Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>> READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Furthermore, individuals with blood type O should be mindful of their caffeine and alcohol intake. While moderate consumption of coffee or tea may have some health benefits, excessive caffeine intake can lead to insomnia, anxiety, and digestive problems. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and certain types of cancer.
Lastly, avoiding smoking and maintaining regular health check-ups are crucial habits for individuals with blood type O. Smoking significantly increases the risk of various diseases, including lung cancer and cardiovascular disease. Regular health check-ups allow for early detection and management of potential health issues, helping to maintain overall health and longevity.
In conclusion, while genetics and blood type play a role in health outcomes, lifestyle choices such as diet, exercise, stress management, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are crucial for individuals with blood type O to live longer and healthier lives. By adopting these habits, individuals can optimize their health and well-being, regardless of their blood type, and potentially increase their lifespan.
As we age, the risk of suffering a stroke increases, but many of the factors contributing to stroke are modifiable through lifestyle choices, particularly diet. While no single factor guarantees a stroke-free life, reducing the intake of certain substances can help mitigate the risk significantly. Among the key culprits that contribute to stroke risk are excessive consumption of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Here’s how these three substances affect stroke risk and why you should consider limiting them:
1. Excessive Salt (Sodium):
High sodium intake is one of the leading contributors to hypertension, which is a major risk factor for stroke. When you consume too much salt, it can cause your blood pressure to rise, putting extra strain on the heart and blood vessels. Over time, this can lead to damage to the arteries, making them more prone to blockages, which can trigger a stroke. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends limiting salt intake to less than 5 grams per day. However, many people consume much more, primarily from processed foods, canned soups, fast food, and restaurant meals, where sodium is often hidden in excess. By reducing salt intake and choosing low-sodium alternatives, you can significantly lower your chances of developing high blood pressure and, by extension, stroke…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>
2. Excessive Sugar (Added Sugars):
A diet high in refined sugars can contribute to the development of several conditions that increase stroke risk, including obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Consuming too much sugar causes an increase in blood glucose levels, leading to insulin resistance, weight gain, and inflammation—all of which are linked to an elevated risk of stroke. Additionally, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels over time, leading to atherosclerosis, or the hardening and narrowing of the arteries. To protect your brain health, it’s important to limit sugary foods and beverages, especially sodas, candies, and baked goods, which contain added sugars that can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 6 teaspoons (25 grams) of added sugar per day for women and 9 teaspoons (38 grams) for men. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
3. Unhealthy Fats (Trans and Saturated Fats):
Not all fats are created equal, and while some fats are essential for good health, unhealthy fats—particularly trans fats and excess saturated fats—can increase your risk of stroke. Trans fats, often found in processed and packaged foods like baked goods, snacks, and margarine, can raise bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and lower good cholesterol (HDL). This leads to plaque buildup in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which significantly increases the likelihood of a stroke. Similarly, a diet high in saturated fats, commonly found in fatty cuts of meat, full-fat dairy products, and certain oils (like palm and coconut oil), can also elevate LDL cholesterol and promote the narrowing of arteries. Replacing these unhealthy fats with healthy fats—such as those found in nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil—can help protect against strokes.
Final Thoughts: While there is no magic bullet to prevent a stroke, maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet is one of the most effective strategies for lowering stroke risk in older age. Reducing your intake of excess salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats can help regulate blood pressure, prevent plaque buildup, and maintain healthy blood vessels, all of which reduce the risk of stroke. Along with a healthy diet, regular physical activity, not smoking, and managing stress are also critical components of a stroke-prevention plan. By making conscious choices to limit these three substances in your diet, you can significantly improve your long-term health and reduce your chances of experiencing a stroke in old age.
In most situations, the first HIV symptoms show up 2–4 weeks after a person is exposed to the virus, but in certain circumstances, they might take months or even years to manifest.
HIV is the name of the virus that causes the illness of the same name. AIDS, a lethal disease brought on by a person’s immune system being significantly weakened, is its last stage.
Fatigue, muscle aches, rashes, headaches, sore throats, enlarged lymph nodes, joint discomfort, night sweats, and diarrhea are some of the symptoms.
A credible source claims that some of these symptoms are more likely to materialize than others. The likelihood of each of the symptoms is mentioned above in decreasing order.
HIV infection in stage 2 is ongoing.
The following are signs of a chronic HIV infection, according to certain studies, says a dependable source: yeast infection in the vagina and oral hairy leukoplakia, which results in white, scaly areas on the tongue. Possible diagnoses include shingles, neuropathy, cervical dysplasia, and the blood clotting condition idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.
The person’s immune system will suffer considerably if this stage continues. Their body will have a harder time fighting off infections and other illnesses as a result.
3.AIDS in Stage
AIDS manifests when a person’s CD4 cell count is significantly decreased as a result of HIV infection.
White blood cells called T cells, sometimes referred to as CD4 cells, are one type. They serve as the body’s defense against harmful microorganisms. These cells become dysfunctional as a result of HIV infection.
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