University of South Carolina Launches Groundbreaking Study on Pica Prevalence and Risks Among Pregnant Women

University of South Carolina researchers launch a new study on pica in pregnancy to improve diagnosis and prevent risks like anemia and fetal toxin exposure.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 18, 2026, 8:52 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina

New Research Targets Hidden Public Health Crisis in South Carolina Clinics

A specialized research team at the Arnold School of Public Health has initiated a pilot study to uncover the prevalence and health implications of pica during pregnancy within the state. Led by Assistant Professor Leila Larson, the project focuses on the compulsive craving and consumption of non-food substances such as ice, clay, soil, and starch. Although this condition is known to affect various demographics, it remains critically underreported in the United States, particularly among rural and minority populations. By utilizing funding from the USC Collaborative for Health Equity Research, the study seeks to bridge the gap between clinical silence and the biological realities faced by expectant mothers in the Palmetto State.

Addressing the Physiological Dangers of Nutrient Deficiencies and Toxins

The medical community increasingly views pica not merely as a behavioral quirk but as a complex biological response to micronutrient gaps, most notably iron deficiency. Ironically, the consumption of items like soap, chalk, or baking powder often worsens these deficiencies by interfering with the body's ability to absorb essential minerals. According to Larson, the risks extend beyond simple malnutrition, as the ingestion of non-food materials can introduce dangerous heavy metals, parasites, and toxins into the maternal bloodstream. These factors contribute to a heightened risk of anemia, high blood pressure, and abnormal weight gain, all of which pose direct threats to the developmental health of the fetus.

Breaking the Silence Surrounding Stigmatized Maternal Health Behaviors

Despite the potential for severe birth outcomes, pica remains largely undiagnosed due to a pervasive culture of shame and a fear of medical stigmatization. In many regions, women hesitate to disclose these cravings to their physicians, leading to a lack of documentation in official medical records. Previous research in North Carolina indicated that while 38% of rural pregnant women experienced pica, three quarters of those cases were entirely missing from their clinical histories. This discrepancy highlights a failure in current screening methods, as providers often overlook the behavioral symptoms of what many patients consider either a private struggle or a misunderstood cultural practice.