Tag: Childhood pica

Worldwide, a meta-analysis found that approximately 27.8% of pregnant women exhibit pica behaviors. Pica, the persistent eating of non-food items, is a complex condition that can indicate significant underlying medical, nutritional, or psychological issues requiring professional evaluation.

While it's normal for toddlers to mouth nonfood items, a persistent and compulsive craving for things that are not food is a medical condition known as Pica. This eating disorder can affect people of all ages, though it is more commonly seen in children, pregnant women, and individuals with certain mental or developmental conditions.