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