Association Between Khat Use, Leisure-Time Physical Activity, and Sedentary Behavior Among Ethiopian Adults

Khat is a plant that contains a compound similar to amphetamines and is used as a stimulant in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It has been linked to numerous physical, mental, and social problems. However, its association with leisure-time physical activity and sedentary behavior has not been studied. Thus, the present study aimed to examine the relationship between leisure-time physical activity and khat use among Ethiopian population.

Cross-sectional data generated using the WHO STEPwise approach to non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factor surveillance (STEPS) were analyzed from a population-based survey of adults (men and women) aged 15-69 years (n = 9,800).

The overall prevalence of khat use was 15.8%, of which 68.6% were heavy users. The mean weekly minutes of vigorous-intensity leisure-time physical activity were 72, and the mean weekly minutes of moderate-intensity leisure-time activity were 69. The mean daily sedentary time was 161.8 min. Participants in the heavy-use category had significantly longer daily sedentary time than those in the light-use category (b = 2.55, p < 0.001, 95% CI: 1.74-3.35). Sedentary time was also significantly associated with alcohol consumption in the past 30 days.

Chronic disease prevention efforts targeting khat users may benefit from incorporating strategies aimed at reducing khat and alcohol use, as well as preventing the initiation of these substances in the general population. However, given the cross-sectional nature of the data, further research is needed to better understand the relationship between khat use and physical activity.