Severe deficiency of the vitamins and minerals required for life is relatively uncommon in developed nations, but modest deficiency is very common and often not taken seriously.

U.S. medical scientists say they've discovered a gene for a rare form of inherited iron deficiency that might suggest new treatments for the disorder. Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency and the leading cause of anemia in the United States.

Serious nutritional deficiencies, obesity plague G

A British hospital advises that vitamin D supplements be given to children of Asian origin to curb the re-emergence of vitamin D deficiency. Researchers at Burnley General Hospital, in Burnley, England, did an analysis of cases of vitamin D deficiency between 1994 and 2005.

By Alison Dayani HEALTH CORRESPONDENT VICTORIAN disease rickets has re-emerged and is on the rise in Birmingham, it emerged today. City health bosses are so worried they are launching a pounds 150,000 campaign to stamp out the emergence of the condition next week.