According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), Pica involves the compulsive eating of non-nutritive, non-food substances inappropriate to the developmental level of the individual. The eating behaviour is not part of a culturally or socially supported practice. Cultural beliefs and practices may play a role some societies, though cultural Pica is distinct from childhood Pica.

• Research on Pica, including possible causes, is limited
• The prevalence may be under-reported due to feelings of embarrassment
• Iron deficiencies may be an underlying factor in some cases
• Can occur during and after pregnancy
• Can affect some people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and/or intellectual disability (ID)

Examples of non-food substances

A person may consume soil, clay, paint, paper, coal, wood, string, pebbles, hair, ice or freezer frost.

Consequences

• Medical complications such as lead poisoning, bowel and intestinal problems and mineral deficiencies
• Constipation, ulcerations, perforations
• Dental problems – abrasion and damage to tooth substance, tooth surface loss
• Pica can be life-threatening, resulting in surgery

Treatment options

• Medication, psychological evaluation and/or behavioural interventions
• Applied behaviour analysis (ABA)
• A multi-disciplinary approach