Definition

A serious condition caused by a lack of protein in the diet, often seen in children, which leads to symptoms like swelling, slow growth, and changes in skin and hair.

Example

The child was diagnosed with kwashiorkor due to a diet lacking sufficient protein.

Conversation

Have you heard about the effects of kwashiorkor on children's health?

Yeah, it's really concerning how many kids suffer from it due to poor nutrition.

I read that it can cause serious growth problems and even affect their development.

Exactly, it's sad that so many children are at risk because of a lack of protein.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Kwashiorkor originates from the Akan language of Ghana, where 'kawshi' means 'the sickness the baby gets when the new baby comes' and 'orkor' means 'to be displaced'. It refers to a form of malnutrition that occurs in children who are weaned from breast milk and do not receive adequate protein in their diet.

Memory Tip

Think of the Akan word 'kawshi', which describes a sickness that occurs when a child is displaced from breastfeeding, helping you remember that kwashiorkor is a malnutrition condition related to inadequate protein intake.

Visually Confused Words