Write a short note on kwashiorkor.

A common disease in children of rural areas, kwashiorkor is caused by protein deficiency in the diet.

A child suffering from kwashiorkor shows the following symptoms:

• Potbelly
• Stunted growth
• Swelling of the face and limbs
• Skin diseases
• Mental retardation
• Diarrhoea

If the treatment is started in time, increasing protein intake may correct the disease.