Scurvy Makes a Comeback: How to Combat This Ancient Greek Disease

Once prevalent among sailors between the 15th and 18th centuries, scurvy is on the rise, primarily due to diets lacking fruits and vegetables. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis has left many families struggling to afford nutritious food, often sacrificing more expensive fruits and vegetables.

Scurvy, caused by a deficiency of vitamin C—found in fruits and veggies—was largely confined to historical contexts. Modern outbreaks are typically linked to food scarcity among refugees or in conflict zones. However, doctors in developed countries are now increasingly reporting cases.

Recent statistics revealed that 188 people were treated for scurvy in English hospitals in 2022, a stark increase from 61 cases in 2008.

Dr Helen Wall, a senior GP partner at NHS Oaks Family Practice in Bolton, explained, “Scurvy results from insufficient vitamin C over an extended period. Symptoms include extreme fatigue, irritability, sadness, joint and muscle pain, and swollen, bleeding gums. One unique sign of scurvy is the appearance of red or blue spots on the skin, particularly on the legs and feet.”

Last week, doctors reported on a 50-year-old man diagnosed with scurvy, who exhibited a rash of red pinpoint spots on his legs and had blood in his urine. He had neglected his diet after weight-loss surgery due to financial constraints, stating he often skipped meals and couldn’t afford the supplements recommended by his doctor.

The medical team noted, “Scurvy is still perceived as a relic of the past, especially in developed nations. The rising cost of living makes it increasingly difficult for families to access nutritious foods. Numerous reports indicate scurvy is emerging due to complications from bariatric surgery. Clinicians need to recognise this potentially fatal yet easily treatable condition.”

Risk factors for scurvy also include mental health issues, eating disorders, obesity, and alcoholism. Dr. Wall mentioned, “Vitamin C is primarily found in fruits and vegetables, often not affordable for many people. Many patients rely on air fryers or microwaves and might lack a functioning hob to cook vegetables.”

According to The Joseph Rowntree Foundation, over 20% of Brits lived in poverty in 2021-2022, with many experiencing “very deep” poverty. Health inequalities are prevalent today, with life expectancy significantly lower in the most deprived areas.

Symptoms of scurvy can appear within a month if daily vitamin C intake falls below 10mg, essential for maintaining healthy bones, teeth, and blood vessels while supporting immunity and wound healing. Fortunately, symptoms can be reversed quickly by replenishing vitamin C levels, and dietary changes can also resolve rickets, another disease on the rise in the UK.

Dr. Wall expressed her challenges when discussing diet and lifestyle with patients, saying, “Often, as soon as I start the conversation, you can see their defensiveness. This isn’t about blaming anyone but acknowledging that diet plays a crucial role in health and recovery.”

Symptoms of Scurvy

• Extreme fatigue and weakness
• Irritability and sadness
• Joint, muscle, and leg pain
• Swollen and bleeding gums
• Red or blue spots on the legs and feet

How to Combat Scurvy

The average adult aged 19 to 64 needs 40mg of vitamin C daily, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. Nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert suggests that frozen vegetables are often cheaper and retain much of their vitamin C, making them a great option for budget-conscious individuals.

For example:

• Frozen spinach can contain up to 28mg of vitamin C per 100g.
• Tinned peas and oranges (in juice, not syrup) are also good sources.
• Potatoes provide around 20mg of vitamin C each, and cabbage is a cheap source, offering about 32mg per 100g.