Journal article

Khat Use: What is the problem and what can be done?

YS Omar, A Jenkins, MVR Altena, H Tuck, C Hynan, A Tohow, P Chopra, D Castle

Biomed Research International | Published : 2015

Open access

Abstract

The chewing of khat leaves is an established tradition in East Africa but is much less prevalent in other areas of the world and is mostly limited to Somali communities. However, our understanding of what constitutes problematic khat use in the Somali community in Victoria, Australia, is limited. The objectives of this study were to better understand the views of Somali community representatives and primary care practitioners regarding problematic khat use, to consider relevant harm minimisation strategies, and to develop resources to assist individuals with problematic khat use and their families. Qualitative research methods were used to investigate the experiences and perceptions of khat ..

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University of Melbourne Researchers

Grants

Funding Acknowledgements

The authors are grateful to the Shepherd Foundation for funding this study. The authors thank all participants for sharing their perspectives and would also like to acknowledge the assistance of staff from Banyule Community Health (in particular, Mr. Michael Geary who provided invaluable support) and Northern Nexus (particularly, Mr. Simon Groes and Mr. Kevan Myers).