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Vitamin A deficiency is a nutritional condition that occurs when the body does not receive enough vitamin A to support normal physiological functions. This essential nutrient plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision, immune function, skin integrity, and cellular growth. Deficiency is most common in populations with limited access to nutrient-rich foods and can affect both children and adults.

One of the earliest and most recognizable symptoms of vitamin A deficiency is night blindness, where individuals struggle to see in low-light conditions. As the deficiency progresses, it may lead to dry eyes, corneal damage, and even permanent vision loss if left untreated. Other symptoms include dry, rough skin, frequent infections, delayed wound healing, fatigue, and impaired growth in children.

Vitamin A deficiency can result from inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption disorders, chronic liver disease, or prolonged poor nutrition. Foods rich in vitamin A include liver, dairy products, eggs, fish, carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and other dark green leafy vegetables.

Prevention involves consuming a balanced diet that includes vitamin A-rich foods and addressing underlying health conditions that affect nutrient absorption. Early diagnosis and appropriate supplementation can effectively restore vitamin A levels, improve symptoms, and prevent serious complications associated with long-term deficiency.