Understanding Pica: What You Need To Know

What Causes Pica?

First, there is no direct cause of pica, as each individual and their case is unique and different from another person who consumes inedible objects. However, stressors such as emotional trauma, maternal deprivation, family problems, parental neglect, pregnancy, and a disorganized family structure are deeply connected to pica as a form of comfort. Mineral deficiencies are also commonly linked to pica; however, in most cases, biological abnormalities are rarely found in patients diagnosed with pica. Patients who practice different forms of pica, such as amylophagy, geophagy, and pagophagy, are more likely to be anemic, have a low hemoglobin concentration in their blood, lower levels of red blood cells, or lower plasma zinc levels. Additionally, pregnant women and children who practice pica were associated with having a higher chance of being anemic or having lower hemoglobin in their blood compared to the general population.

Recently, pica has been linked to the obsessive-compulsive spectrum. However, pica is still recognized as a separate mental disorder, and recent studies have found a connection between OCD and schizophrenia as a possible cause of pica in some cases. Pica can also be a cultural practice not associated with a disorder or deficiency, and cultural rituals can be the cause of it in some individuals.

Continue reading to learn how doctors treat patients who have pica, as the types of treatments may surprise you!