Knowledge, attitude and practice of khat chewing among pharmacy students in Al-Razi University, Sana`a, Yemen.

Abstract

Background: Khat consumption has negative implications for individuals. The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of the khat chewing among pharmacy students at Al-Razi University. Methods: A total of 234 students were randomly selected through convenience sampling. The data was collected via a structured and validated online questionnaire completed by the participants and analyzed descriptively. Results: There were a total of 168 respondents, with 77 (45.83%) of them identifying as khat chewers and being  included in the final analysis. Around 58.4% of participants spent ≥ 2000 riyals per day on khat, while approximately 31.2% spent ≤ 1000. Students made up the largest group at 26.0% and primarily used khat to enhance focus while studying. 11% reported deriving pleasure from khat chewing, while 9% saw it as a social habit. The study found that 62.3% of students recognized the similarity between khat and amphetamines, and 58.4% knew that cathinone causes addiction. In terms of attitudes, students agreed that khat chewing poses health risks and that young people should avoid it. They also believed that khat promotes alertness and that HCPs set an example for the public. Conclusions: 35% of pharmacy students are unaware of the health risks of khat chewing. Those who consume khat report improved concentration levels.