What is the primary health issue caused by a deficiency in Vitamin C?

A deficiency in Vitamin C leads to scurvy, which is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, swollen gums, and joint pain. This condition arises because Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, which is vital for maintaining healthy skin, blood vessels, and connective tissues. When the body lacks sufficient Vitamin C, it struggles to produce collagen effectively, leading to the breakdown of these structures and the manifestation of scurvy symptoms.

The other listed health issues are associated with deficiencies in different vitamins or nutrients. Rickets is linked to a deficiency in Vitamin D, leading to weakened bones and skeletal deformities. Pellagra is caused by a deficiency in niacin (Vitamin B3) and is characterized by symptoms such as dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia. Anemia can result from various factors, including iron, folate, or Vitamin B12 deficiencies, impacting red blood cell production. Each of these conditions has distinct causes and symptoms, making scurvy the specific result of lacking Vitamin C.