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Multiple Choice
If a breastfeeding mother becomes vitamin D deficient, what disease is most likely to develop in the nursing infant?
A
dwarfism
B
rickets
C
osteoporosis
D
Paget's disease
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of vitamin D in the body: Vitamin D is crucial for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for healthy bone development.
Recognize the impact of vitamin D deficiency: Without adequate vitamin D, the body cannot absorb enough calcium and phosphorus, leading to weakened bones.
Identify the condition associated with weakened bones in infants: Rickets is a disease characterized by softening and weakening of bones in children, often due to vitamin D deficiency.
Consider the transmission of nutrients from mother to infant: A breastfeeding mother who is vitamin D deficient may not provide sufficient vitamin D to her nursing infant, increasing the risk of rickets.
Conclude the most likely disease to develop: Given the role of vitamin D in bone health and the symptoms of rickets, the nursing infant is most likely to develop rickets if the mother is vitamin D deficient.