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A transcultural pattern of drug use: qat (khat) in the UK
P Griffiths1, M Gossop, S Wickenden
1National Addiction Centre, Maudsley Hospital, London.
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.