Old Black Water
2005
Old Black Water
publication
Author Information
Author(s): Wilcox Lynne S.
Hypothesis
Pellagra was caused by a nutritional deficiency rather than an infectious agent.
Conclusion
Dr. Goldberger's intervention with brewer's yeast effectively cured and prevented new cases of pellagra following the Mississippi flood.
Supporting Evidence
- Heavy spring rains in 1927 caused the Mississippi River to flood, affecting millions.
- The American Red Cross established camps and fed over 600,000 people during the disaster.
- Dr. Goldberger demonstrated that pellagra was caused by a lack of niacin, not an infectious agent.
- Goldberger's dietary advice led to the curing of pellagra cases in the flood-affected areas.
Takeaway
A long time ago, a big flood made many people sick because they didn't have enough good food. A doctor found out that giving them a special food helped them get better.
Methodology
Dr. Goldberger evaluated the extent of pellagra in flooded areas and advised on dietary changes.
Participant Demographics
More than half of people with pellagra were sharecroppers, primarily African American.
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