Khat Chewing Practice and Associated Factors among Adults in Ethiopia: Further Analysis Using the 2011 Demographic and Health Survey

Abstract

BackgroundKhat chewing has become a highly prevalent practice and a growing public health concern in Ethiopia. Although there have been many small scale studies, very limited national information has been available in the general population. This study aimed to identify factors associated with khat chewing practice among Ethiopian adults.MethodsThe study used the 2011 Ethiopian demographic and health survey data. The survey was cross-sectional by design and used a multistage cluster sampling procedure. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models with adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to quantify the predictors.ResultsThe overall khat chewing prevalence was 15.3% (95% CI: 14.90–15.71). Regional variation was observed with the highest in Harari [(53.2% (95% CI: 43.04–63.28)] and lowest in Tigray regional state [(1.1% (95% CI: 0.72–1.66)]. Multivariable analysis showed that Islam followers were 23.8 times more likely to chew khat as compared to Orthodox followers. Being a resident in Oromiya, South Nation, Nationalities and People (SNNP), Gambella, Harari and Dire Dawa regions had 1.9, 1.6, 3.1, 5.2 and 3.5 times higher odds of chewing khat as compared to Addis Ababa residents, respectively. Adults in the age group 45–49 years were 3.6 times more likely to chew khat as compared to 15–19 years. The middle and richest wealth quintiles were 1.3 and 1.5 times more likely to chew khat, respectively, as compared to the poorest category. Rural residents had 1.3 odds of chewing khat than urban residents. Those individuals who had occupation in sales, agriculture, service sector, skilled and unskilled manual workers were 1.6, 1.3, 2.4, 1.7 and 2.3 times more likely to chew khat, respectively, as compared to those who have no occupation. Females were 77% less likely to chew khat as compared to males. Formerly married and those experienced in child death had 1.4 and 1.2 times higher odds to chew khat as compared with those never married and never had child death, respectively. Those who attended mass media were 1.4 times more likely to chew khat compared with not attended.ConclusionKhat chewing is a public health concern in Ethiopia. The highest wealth quintiles, older age group, rural residence, child death, formerly married, males, regions of Oromiya, SNNP, Gambella, Harari and Dire Dawa and Islamic followers had statistically significant association with khat chewing. Due attention needs to be given for these factors in any intervention procedures.

Associations Between Khat Use and HIV Risk and Status Among Voluntary Counseling and Testing Center Clients in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

“…Our study found that over half of male participants reported past khat use and that men had a greater odds of using khat compared to females, which has been shown in other studies. Khat use among females is restricted due to social and cultural norms (Gebrehanna et al, 2014; Halle & Lakew, 2015). Our finding that Muslims were more likely to currently use khat has also been shown in the literature and reflects a tradition of using khat for optimal concentration in prayer and work (Haile & Lakew, 2015).…”

“…Khat use among females is restricted due to social and cultural norms (Gebrehanna et al, 2014; Halle & Lakew, 2015). Our finding that Muslims were more likely to currently use khat has also been shown in the literature and reflects a tradition of using khat for optimal concentration in prayer and work (Haile & Lakew, 2015). Khat users had a greater number of number of sex partners in one’s lifetime, which may reflect a higher propensity for risk taking behaviors.…”

“…In Ethiopia, khat has historically been used by Muslim males during prayer and more recently to alter mood, increase energy and improve work performance (Kebede et al, 2005; Gebissa, 2010b; Dawit et al, 2006). Currently, 15% of individuals aged 15 to 49 report using khat, though this number can be as high as 50% in some regions (Halle and Lakew, 2015). …”

Prevalence of Psychological Distress and Associated Factors among Adult Tuberculosis Patients Attending Public Health Institutions in Dire Dawa and Harar Cities, Eastern Ethiopia

“…The prevalence of chewing Khat in the Harari, eastern Ethiopia was ranged from 48.2-53.2 % [25,26] while tobacco and alcohol use were 38.2% and 10.5% respectively [26]. The substances use increased the risk of depression and anxiety disorder [27].…”

Khat chewing increases the risk for developing chronic liver disease: A hospital‐based case–control study

“…Decompensated CLD is one of the most frequent reasons for admission to medical wards in eastern Ethiopia; in >50% of the cases the liver disease is “unexplained.” Khat chewing is widespread throughout the country but more especially in the eastern regions where khat cultivation predominantly takes place . The number of people chewing khat has increased rapidly in recent years with the habit gaining popularity in all segments of the community; hence, the overall prevalence of khat chewing in Ethiopia is estimated at 15.3% but with wide regional variations . Although khat chewing is traditionally a male habit, a recent community‐based study in pregnant women in eastern Ethiopia reported a prevalence of khat usage of 34.6% …”