Scurvy, the scourge of seafarers from centuries past, is making an unexpected return in modern times, and it's not just a historical curiosity—it's a wake-up call about our contemporary diets and healthcare practices.

Discover the reasons behind this alarming resurgence.

The Resurgence of a Bygone Affliction​

Scurvy, a condition caused by a deficiency in vitamin C, was once a common plight among sailors who lacked fresh produce on long voyages.

Today, however, it's rearing its head in developed countries, catching many by surprise.


Australian doctors recently highlighted this in BMJ Case Reports, detailing the case of a middle-aged man whose poor diet led to a scurvy diagnosis.


This isn't an isolated incident.

In the United States, research indicates that scurvy cases in children have more than tripled between 2016 and 2020.

The patients are often young, male, obese, and from low-income families, with a significant number diagnosed with autism.

Why Scurvy is Making a Comeback​

The reasons for scurvy's return are multifaceted.

In the case of the Australian patient, a combination of financial constraints, poor diet, and the cessation of vitamin supplements after gastric bypass surgery created a perfect storm for vitamin C deficiency.


Risk factors for scurvy include:

• Poor nutrition, often due to financial difficulties or lack of access to fresh foods.
• Gastric bypass surgery, which can affect nutrient absorption.
• Dialysis, alcoholism, psychiatric conditions, and eating disorders.

The symptoms of scurvy can manifest after just a month of insufficient vitamin C intake, which is less than 10 milligrams per day.

The recommended daily intake is 90 milligrams for adult men and 75 milligrams for adult women, with higher needs for certain groups like smokers and pregnant women.

Recognizing and Treating Scurvy​

Scurvy's symptoms can be subtle at first but may escalate to severe complications if left untreated.

Early signs include fatigue, gum inflammation, and a rash. As the condition progresses, patients may experience bruising, swelling, and even catastrophic hemorrhage.

The good news is that scurvy is easily reversible with vitamin C supplementation.

A dramatic improvement can be seen within 24 hours of treatment, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and prompt action.

Preventing Scurvy in the Modern World​

Prevention is straightforward: maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and consider supplements if you're at risk of deficiency.

For those who have undergone gastric bypass surgery or have other risk factors, it's crucial to follow medical advice and take prescribed supplements.


Here are some tips to ensure you're getting enough vitamin C:

• Incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables into your diet, such as oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli.
• If fresh produce is not always available, frozen fruits and vegetables can be a nutritious alternative.
• For those who struggle with solid foods, vitamin C is also available in fortified juices and supplements.

The return of scurvy is a stark reminder of the importance of nutrition, especially as we age.

It's easy to overlook the basics in a world filled with medical advancements and complex healthcare advice.

Yet, something as simple as vitamin C can have a profound impact on our health.
Review your diet, consult with healthcare professionals if you have concerns, and help spread awareness about this preventable condition.
Have you or someone you know been affected by vitamin deficiencies? What steps do you take to ensure you're getting the nutrients you need? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below, and let's continue to support each other in leading healthy, vibrant lives.