Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other one labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): Duration and severity of diarrhoea can be reduced by zinc supplementation in children.
Reason (R): Zinc allows limitation of the use of antibacterial and antimicrobials.
In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
• B. Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is NOT the correct explanation of (A).
• C. (A) is true but (R) is false.
• D. (A) is false but (R) is true.

Hint:

Zinc acts on the cellular level to improve the gut's immune response and mucosal barrier, which directly shortens diarrhoea duration.
This biological action is the true explanation for the reduction in severity.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Childhood diarrhoea is a major global health challenge.
Management strategies focus on rehydration and zinc supplementation to support recovery and prevent future episodes.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Assertion (A): WHO and UNICEF recommend zinc supplementation (20 mg/day) for 10-14 days during acute diarrhoea in children.
Zinc supports intestinal mucosal repair, improves water and electrolyte absorption, and boosts immune response, which significantly reduces the duration and severity of the episode. Thus, Assertion (A) is true.
- Reason (R): Diarrhoea is often self-limiting or viral.
Because zinc supplementation effectively reduces the severity and duration of the episode naturally, it reduces the unnecessary overuse of antibacterial and antimicrobial medications. Thus, Reason (R) is true.
- Relationship: While both statements are true, the physiological reason why zinc reduces the severity of diarrhoea is its direct effect on enterocyte membrane integrity and immune function, not its impact on antibiotic prescribing patterns.
Therefore, both statements are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct physiological explanation of Assertion (A).

Step 3: Final Answer:
Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A), corresponding to option (B).