Viljoen, MargarethaClaassen, Nico2023-10-262023-10-262022-12Viljoen, M. & Claassen, N. 2022, 'Reflections on pellagra, the then and the now', Medicina Historica, vol. 6, no. 3, art. e2022042, pp. 1-2.2532-2370http://hdl.handle.net/2263/93082By the mid-20th century, pellagra had virtually been eradicated from the USA and Europe. In contrast, outbreaks of pellagra, as diagnosed by skin lesions, today still occur in sub-Saharan Africa. We argue that outbreaks of pellagra in sub-Saharan regions are not only maintained by food insecurity, but that it is further aggravated by the burden of communicable diseases and excessive alcohol consumption. In addition, we argue from a historical point of view, that the prevalence of pellagra is underestimated when based only on dermatological symptoms.en© Mattioli 1885.Niacin-deficiencyNutritional disorderPellagraSDG-03: Good health and well-beingSub-Saharan Africa (SSA)Food insecurityCommunicable diseasesAlcohol consumptionSkin lesionsSDG-02: Zero hungerArticle