ABSTRACT
In UK there are a few medical conditions which are common in Indo-Asians compared with the Caucasian population. Information on the issues may help staff to avoid pitfalls and delay in diagnosing medical problems accurately. Osteomalacia is a defect in bone mineralisation secondary to vitamin D deficiency or its metabolism. In some studies 40% of Indo-Asians presenting with end-stage renal failure had diabetes as compared with the white population where only 20% had Type 2 diabetes. In many cases it is not possible to determine the cause of renal disease, as th ere is advanced disease at the time of presentation. The experience in Leicester has provided insight into issues surrounding renal replacement therapy in Indo-Asians. The two major causes of the disorder include a diet deficient in vitamin D and inadequate exposure to sunlight. The main component of surma is lead sulphide which can lead to chronic lead poisoning.
