Scurvy Cases May Rise in Canada, Experts Warn

Scurvy Cases May Rise in Canada, Experts Warn
Sailors suffered from scurvy in the 18th century because of the unavailability of fresh fruit and vegetables. logoboom/Shutterstock
Carolina Avendano
Updated:

A 65-year-old Toronto woman who got scurvy while living on canned soup and processed food highlights the risk of health issues resulting from food insecurity, a new study warns.

Doctors at a Toronto hospital who examined the woman last year found she lived with little social and family support, said the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) report. She had swollen gums, skin discolouration on both thighs, weakness in her legs, and poor mobility.