The effects of a month of forced starvation on a North Vietnamese defector who was recaptured by the Viet Cong. Individuals experiencing starvation lose substantial fat (adipose tissue) and muscle mass as the body breaks down these tissues for energy. Vitamin deficiency is another common result of starvation, often leading to anemia, beriberi, pellagra, and scurvy. The energy deficiency inherent in starvation causes fatigue and renders the victim more apathetic over time. Atrophy of the stomach weakens the perception of hunger, and victims of starvation are often unable to sense thirst.Photograph: United States Information Agency; restoration: Chris Woodrich