**4. Conclusions**

In conclusion, the classical view of vitamin C deficiency and scurvy being exclusively nutritional disorders needs to be updated. The genetic polymorphism of *HFE* and (to a lesser extent) Hp may have played an important role in explaining the remarkable geographic variability of excess in mortality during famine and scurvy episodes in recent European history. The data confirm the importance of the interplay between the iron status and vitamin C requirements. In order to further elucidate the mechanisms of scurvy, *HFE* and Hp genotyping of skeletons of scurvy victims could be considered in the future. Besides the differential genetic background, cultural, social and economic aspects relating to access to food and differential diets in the 19th century should be taken into account when interpreting those results.
