What term describes a disorder in which individuals ingest non-food items?

The term that describes a disorder in which individuals ingest non-food items is pica. This condition is characterized by the compulsive consumption of substances that are not considered food, such as dirt, clay, chalk, or even paint. Pica can occur in various populations, but it is often observed in children, pregnant women, and individuals with developmental disabilities.

Understanding pica is crucial, especially in the context of lead poisoning, as certain non-food items, particularly those found in soil or painted surfaces, may contain lead. People with pica may be at a higher risk for lead exposure if they consume contaminated items.

Lead poisoning refers specifically to the toxic effects that arise from elevated levels of lead in the body, which can result from various sources, including ingestion of lead-contaminated substances. Hemochromatosis is a metabolic disorder related to iron overload in the body, and teeth grinding, or bruxism, involves the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth and is unrelated to the ingestion of non-food items. Understanding these distinctions helps illustrate the unique nature of pica and its implications for health, particularly in relation to lead exposure.