1/4/2024 0 Comments Pica disorderTherefore, pica should only be considered when the behavior is inappropriate for the developmental level of the individual, is not a culturally sanctioned practice, and is not co-occurring with schizophrenia or other mental disorders. In some societies, pica is a cultural practice and is not considered to be problematic. The exact cause of pica is not known, but it may be associated with certain medical conditions (gastric parasites, sickle cell disease, iron deficiency). Pica is sometimes associated with malnutrition or an iron or zinc deficiency.Ĭhildren and adults with pica disorder may eat hairballs, paint, sand, dirt, animal feces, clay, cigarette butts, paper, burnt matches, wood, chalk or other substances that are not typically considered food.Īlthough pica is observed most frequently in children, it is the most common eating disorder in individuals with developmental disabilities. Lead poisoning, for instance, is a serious problem, and lead levels should always be tested if the individual has ingested paint or paint covered objects. Pica may be benign, or it can have life-threatening consequences depending on what is ingested. A person with pica might eat relatively harmless items, such as ice. This behavior occurs at an age for which it is developmentally inappropriate, or beyond 18 to 24 months of age. People with the disorder pica compulsively eat items that have no nutritional value. ![]() Pica is typically defined as the ingestion of non-nutritive/non-food substances for a period of at least 1 month. Pica is an eating disorder most commonly observed in children, but can occur with adults as well.
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