Marasmus, the wasting disease of starving children, is caused by a diet deficient in

  • A. calories and protein overall
  • B. vitamin C only
  • C. iron only
  • D. iodine only

Explanation

Marasmus reflects total starvation, with loss of muscle and fat, while kwashiorkor is protein deficiency with adequate calories, causing oedema. The two malnutrition syndromes are distinguished by exactly this point.

Related questions