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Which vitamin deficiency is associated with the condition known as rickets?
Vitamin A
Vitamin B12
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
The correct answer is: Vitamin D
Rickets is a condition characterized by the softening and weakening of bones in children, primarily due to a deficiency of vitamin D. This vitamin plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphorus in the body, as it facilitates the absorption of these essential minerals from the diet. Without adequate vitamin D, the body struggles to maintain proper levels of calcium and phosphorus, which are vital for the healthy development of bones. When children lack sufficient vitamin D, their bones do not mineralize properly, leading to deformities and a heightened risk of fractures. The condition often presents with symptoms such as delayed growth, pain in the bones, and skeletal abnormalities such as bowed legs or a swollen abdomen. The other vitamins mentioned—A, B12, and C—are indeed important for various bodily functions, such as vision, red blood cell production, and immune function respectively, but they are not related to the bone mineralization issues seen in rickets. Thus, vitamin D deficiency is specifically associated with this condition, making it the correct answer.