Question
A three-year-old child has been fond of eating stones and paper for a year now, and the situation has become more severe. Although a hospital check-up revealed a lack of trace elements, the child refuses to take the prescribed medication. What should be done now?
Answer
Pica is an eating disorder characterized by the persistent consumption of non-nutritive substances, which may lead to complications such as lead poisoning and bowel obstruction. Treatment measures primarily include psychological therapy and behavioral therapy.