question 4

Who would you expect to be most at risk for developing the bone disease rickets?

a. Children born to mothers with dark skin, living far from the equator
b. Adults with dark skin who live close to the equator
c. Children born to mothers with light skin, living close to the equator
d. Adults with light skin who live close to the equator
e. Anyone who eats a diet that includes a lot of fish

Explain the reasoning or evidence you used to answer Question 4.

1 answer

The most at risk group for developing rickets would be a. Children born to mothers with dark skin, living far from the equator.

Reasoning:

  1. Understanding of Rickets: Rickets is a bone disease that is primarily caused by a deficiency in vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, leading to softening and weakening of bones in children. Vitamin D is vital for absorbing calcium, which is essential for healthy bone development.

  2. Vitamin D Synthesis: The body synthesizes vitamin D when the skin is exposed to sunlight, particularly UVB rays. People with darker skin have a higher melanin content, which provides some protection against UV radiation but also reduces the skin’s ability to produce vitamin D.

  3. Geographical Considerations: Living far from the equator means less direct sunlight year-round. Therefore, children born to mothers with dark skin who reside in these areas are less likely to get sufficient sunlight exposure, putting them at greater risk of vitamin D deficiency and, consequently, rickets.

  4. Comparative Risk:

    • b. Adults with dark skin who live close to the equator: They are likely to receive adequate sun exposure and hence have a lower risk of rickets.
    • c. Children born to mothers with light skin, living close to the equator: Light-skinned individuals can synthesize vitamin D efficiently in sunny regions, minimizing the risk of rickets.
    • d. Adults with light skin who live close to the equator: Similar to option c, they would also have sufficient vitamin D from the sun.
    • e. Anyone who eats a diet that includes a lot of fish: While a diet rich in fish, which contains vitamin D, can certainly help prevent rickets, it does not negate the risk if sunlight exposure is insufficient.

Conclusion:

Therefore, option a is the most vulnerable group for developing rickets, given the combination of skin pigmentation and geographical location, which affects their vitamin D synthesis.