Abstract

End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) occurs when the kidneys are no longer able to function at a level necessary for day to day life. Pica refers to the persistent, compulsive craving for and ingestion of nonfood items and certain food items. ESRD may constitute a potent stress and stimulus for pica, especially in those patients with an underlying cultural predisposition. The occurrence of pica in a South Florida dialysis unit was studied via a carefully designed a pica questionnaire aimed towards creating a human connection. A significantly greater proportion of subjects endorsing pica practices were found in the dialysis group (38.3%) as compared to the control group (16%). Dialysis patients endorsing pica behaviors were significantly younger than those who denied pica behavior. Additionally there was a significantly greater proportion of females endorsing pica behaviors. Odds ratios analyses revealed greater odds of engaging in pica behaviors for Black participants than Hispanics or Whites.  Pagophagia (ice pica) was the most frequently reported type of pica practice. The incidence of pica in this study was considerably higher than that which had been found in past studies. This likely resulted from the unique manner in which the information was educed. Implications and suggestions for future research directions are discussed.

Key words: Chronic kidney failure, dialysis, pica, pagophagia, geophagia, behavioral medicine, health psychology.