<br />Rickets is a disease that primarily affects bone growth in children. It is usually caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, which are essential for bone strength and proper development. Rickets is easily preventable, but a lack of proper nutrition and adequate sun exposure can lead to its development, especially in malnourished environments.<br /><br />Causes of Rickets<br />Rickets occurs as a result of several causes, including:<br />Vitamin D deficiency: This is the primary cause. Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphate from the intestine.<br />Malnutrition: A low intake of foods rich in calcium and phosphate.<br />Lack of sun exposure: Sunlight contributes to the production of vitamin D in the skin.<br />Liver or kidney disease: Some diseases affect the body's ability to convert vitamin D into its active form.<br />Genetic disorders: Such as vitamin D-resistant rickets, a rare condition resulting from a defect in the body's absorption or response to the vitamin.<br /><br />Symptoms of Rickets<br />Symptoms usually appear in early childhood and include:<br />Weak bones that break easily.<br />Bowed legs (either outward or inward).<br />Delayed physical and length growth.<br />Bone pain, especially in the arms, legs, and pelvis.<br />Delayed teething or problems with tooth development.<br />Muscle weakness.<br />Prominent breastbones or spinal deformities.<br /><br />Diagnosis<br />The doctor relies on:<br />Physical examination: to detect physical deformities.<br />Blood tests: to measure vitamin D, calcium, and phosphate levels.<br />X-rays: to see bone deformities.<br /><br />Treatment methods<br />Treatment depends on the cause, but often includes:<br />Vitamin D deficiency: through nutritional supplements or regular sun exposure.<br />Calcium and phosphate supplements: to improve bone health.<br />Correcting other genetic or pathological factors: such as treating kidney or liver disease if they are the cause.<br />Surgery: in rare cases, to correct severe bone deformities.<br /><br />Prevention<br />Ensuring a balanced diet for children that includes milk, eggs, and fish.<br />Exposing children to sufficient amounts of sunlight.<br />Regular follow-up with a doctor, especially for children in the early stages of development.<br /><br /><br />Rickets is a disease that can be easily prevented through good nutrition and adequate exposure to sunlight. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can restore a child's normal growth and prevent long-term complications. Caring for children's health from the early years is an investment in their physical and psychological future.<br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University is the first university in Iraq.