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1 results

  • A transcultural pattern of drug use: Qat (khat) in the UK

  • Paul Griffiths, Michael Gossop, Simon Wickenden, John Dunworth, Ken Harris, Charles Lloyd
  • Journal:
    The British Journal of Psychiatry / Volume 170 / Issue 3 / March 1997
    Published online by Cambridge University Press:
    03 January 2018, pp. 281-284
    Print publication:
    March 1997
  • Background

    This study investigates patterns of qat use among 207 Somalis living in London.

    Method

    Subjects were recruited using privileged access interviewing. Somalian interviewers were recruited who shared the same culture as the subjects. Data were collected by means of a structured interview.

    Results

    One hundred and sixty-two subjects (78%) had used qat. The majority (76%) used more qat than in Somalia. Some users reported moderate dependence; a minority reported severe problems. Adverse psychological effects included sleep problems, anxiety and depression. Medical problems associated with qat use were rare.

    Conclusions

    Qat users who continue to use this drug when it is transplanted from a traditional context may experience difficulties. Qat use can also be seen as playing a positive role in supporting the cultural identity of the Somalian community. Severe problems were rarely reported. Qat consumption should be considered when addressing health-related topics with patients from those communities in which qat use is common.