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Pica
DefinitionPica is a pattern of eating non-nutritive substances (such as dirt or paper), lasting for at least one month.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Pica is seen more in young children than adults, with 10 to 32% of children age one to six years old exhibiting these behaviors.
Pica can occur during pregnancy. In some cases, specific nutritional deficiencies, such as iron deficiency anemia and zinc deficiency, may trigger the unusual cravings. Pica may also occur in adults who crave a certain texture in their mouth.
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- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD - Pediatric)
- Memory Loss
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Jump to another section
• Definition
• Pica Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Pica Symptoms & Signs
• Pica Prevention
• Pica Diagnosis & Tests
• Pica Treatment
• Pica Prognosis
• Pica Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Anemia
• Intestinal Obstruction
• Iron Deficiency Anemia
Tests & Exams
• Hemoglobin
Review Date : 5/24/2002
Reviewed By : Marylinn Markarian, M.D., Associate Medical Director, FEGS Continuing Day Program, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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