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Beriberi Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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beriberi

[หŒberษ™หˆberฤ“ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Beriberi is a disease caused by a deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1). It primarily affects the cardiovascular and nervous systems, leading to symptoms such as weakness, pain, and swelling. There are two main forms of beriberi: wet beriberi, which affects the cardiovascular system, and dry beriberi, which impacts the nervous system. It is most commonly found in regions where polished rice is a staple food and thiamine is lacking in the diet. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for recovery.

Synonyms

B1 deficiency, thiamine deficiency.

Examples of usage

  • She developed beriberi due to malnutrition.
  • Wet beriberi can lead to heart failure.
  • Dry beriberi often causes severe neurological symptoms.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'beriberi' comes from a Sinhalese word meaning 'I cannot' which reflects the weakness felt by those affected.
  • In the early 20th century, scientists discovered the connection between this illness and a lack of vitamin B1, leading to dietary changes.
  • First noted in Japan during the Meiji era, it was linked to a shift from traditional rice to polished rice that lacked essential nutrients.

Geography

  • This condition became widespread in areas of Southeast Asia where polished rice was a staple food, particularly in the poorer populations.
  • Today, it still appears in regions where food security is an issue, particularly among populations with limited diets.
  • The name is used differently in various cultures, illustrating the global impact and recognition of this nutritional deficiency.

Health

  • Beriberi can present in two forms: wet, which affects the cardiovascular system, and dry, which affects the nervous system.
  • Symptoms can include swelling, shortness of breath, numbness, and difficulty walking, emphasizing the vital role of nutrition in health.
  • Treatment often involves vitamin B1 supplementation and dietary changes, showing the importance of proper nutrition.

Science

  • The discovery of beriberi in the early 1900s was pivotal in understanding the role of vitamins in human health and nutrition.
  • Thiamine, or vitamin B1, is crucial for energy metabolism, especially in the brain and heart, demonstrating its importance to our body functions.
  • Research on this condition has helped shape public health policies on nutrition and food fortification globally.

Origin of 'beriberi'

The term 'beriberi' originates from the Sinhalese word 'beri beri', which means 'I cannot, I am unable'. This reflects the physical debilitation experienced by those suffering from the condition. The disease was first described in the early 19th century, particularly among subjects in colonial regions where rice was a primary food source. In 1884, the Dutch physician Christiaan Eijkman noted that birds fed polished rice exhibited symptoms similar to beriberi in humans. This observation led to the eventual identification of thiamine as the critical vitamin whose deficiency causes the disease. Over the years, the understanding of beriberi has evolved, highlighting its role as a major public health issue in several regions of the world, particularly in areas with poor nutrition and low dietary variety.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,947, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.