A disease of chronic malnutrition during childhood, in which a protein deficiency makes the child more vulnerable to other diseases such as measles, diarrhea, and influenza, is called what?

• A. Kwashiorkor
• B. Marasmus
• C. Soil Exhaustion
• D. Food Shortages

Answer: (A)

Protein-energy malnutrition in children where the diet provides enough calories but not enough high-quality protein is being described. In Kwashiorkor, the body runs short of protein, so the immune system is weakened and a child becomes highly vulnerable to infections such as measles, diarrhea, and influenza. This condition often shows edema (swelling) in the legs and abdomen, an enlarged fatty liver, and changes to hair and skin. It differs from marasmus, which is severe overall energy deficiency leading to wasting without edema. The other options refer to general issues like soil health or food supply, not a specific protein-deficiency illness.