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Persisting nutritional neuropathy amongst former war prisoners
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry
|October 1, 1982
Summary
Malnutrition in captivity caused long-term neurological disease in 5.5% of former Far East prisoners of war. Symptoms like peripheral neuropathy persisted for decades, impacting veterans
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Nutritional Medicine
- Military Health
Background:
- Investigating the long-term health consequences of malnutrition experienced by prisoners of war (POWs) during captivity.
- Focusing on neurological sequelae stemming from nutritional deficiencies in former Far East POWs.
Observation:
- A cohort of 898 former Far East POWs was assessed between 1968 and 1981.
- 5.5% (49 individuals) exhibited persistent symptomatic neurological disease linked to wartime malnutrition.
Findings:
- Common neurological syndromes included peripheral neuropathy (specifically "burning feet"), optic atrophy, and sensorineural deafness.
- While most nutritional neuropathies resolved post-release, some cases persisted for up to 36 years after the initial nutritional insult.
Implications:
- Highlights the chronic and enduring impact of severe malnutrition on neurological health.
- Underscores the need for long-term medical monitoring and support for veterans exposed to such conditions.
- Provides evidence for the lasting effects of wartime nutritional deprivation on nervous system function.