ABSTRACT
Metabolic and endocrine diseases are globally recognized as a major public health priority related to acute and chronic health consequences. This chapter covers diseases that have played a central role in paleopathological investigations. These include scurvy (vitamin C deficiency), rickets and osteomalacia (primarily vitamin D deficiency), and acquired anemias, where bioavailability of micro-nutrients is critical. Factors involved in acquisition of peak bone mass and bone maintenance are considered for osteoporosis and the complex association between the metabolic and endocrine diseases is explored for secondary hyperparathyroidism. Conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, present clear challenges for paleopathologists and are included in this chapter as we explore historical perspectives and current approaches to the metabolic and endocrine diseases. The chapter finishes by considering how paleopathology provides a deeper appreciation of past health, disease, and life histories at both the individual and wider community level, together with longer-term perspectives on current health debates.
