Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 86%
Simulated
Why is hemorrhagic disease of the newborn rare in Western countries?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
Hemorrhagic disease of the newborn (HDN) is caused by vitamin K deficiency, leading to impaired clotting. In Western countries, prophylactic vitamin K injection is standard practice at birth, dramatically reducing incidence. Breast milk is low in vitamin K, so breastfeeding without prophylaxis increases risk-not decreases it.