Global Cassava Food Supply and Occurrence of Ataxic Polyneuropathy and Konzo

Study was done to describe global cassava food supply, and its relationship to occurrence of ataxic polyneuropathy and konzo, which are attributed to exposure to cyanide from cassava food. Cassava food supply and occurrence of ataxic polyneuropathy and konzo in all countries from 1961 to 2011, and GDP data for 2011 were analyzed. Cassava food supply ≥ 10% of expected daily calorie need was compared with GDP and occurrence of ataxic polyneuropathy and konzo. About half a billion people live where cassava food supply was ≥180 kcal/person/day. Cassava food supply ≥180 kcal/person/day was associated with GDP per capita ≤$535, p<0.0001, and with occurrence of ataxic polyneuropathy or konzo, odds ratio 30 (95% CI 7–134). Strong association of high cassava supply with low income and with endemicity of ataxic polyneuropathy and konzo indicates that reduction of contribution of cassava to energy needs will reduce the burden of disease.