Pica: Sorting it out

Abstract

Pica, a culture-bound illness, has occurred for centuries. The ingestion of nonfood substances such as starch, cornstarch, clay, dirt, and other material is fairly common, although the distribution of the condition varies by cultural and socioeconomic factors. The underlying cause of pica is not known, although the condition often is associated with pregnancy. There is conflicting evidence about the association of nutrient deficiencies and pica. This article presents a clinical example of pica in a pregnant 33-year-old African American woman. Implications for culturally appropriate care are discussed.