Question

According to Gopalan's Hypothesis, choose correct statement regarding Protein Energy Malnutrition.
Statement I: Nutritional Marasmus may be the result of extreme degree of dysadaptation and Kwashiorkor is the result of adaptation.
Statement II: Kwashiorkor results from overproduction of free radicals and breakdown of protective mechanism.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Both Statement I and Statement II are correct
• B. Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect
• C. Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect
• D. Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct

Hint:

Kwashiorkor is associated with protein deficiency despite sufficient caloric intake, leading to immune system breakdown, while marasmus involves severe caloric and protein deficiency.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

According to Gopalan's Hypothesis of Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM):
- Statement I is incorrect. Marasmus is primarily caused by a lack of total caloric intake, and it is not typically the result of dysadaptation. Kwashiorkor, on the other hand, is caused by protein deficiency despite adequate caloric intake, and is a result of the body's adaptation to starvation.
- Statement II is correct. Kwashiorkor results from protein deficiency, which leads to the breakdown of protective mechanisms like the immune system. Free radicals are also involved in causing oxidative damage to cells, further impairing the protective mechanisms of the body. Thus, the correct answer is (4) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct.