Khat Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Khat - Research Paper Example They are likely to smoke cigarette and drink alcohol as compared to the non-user c counterparts. More youth are using khat, and they can be categorized demographically as between ages of 15 and not exceeding twenty five years of age. This group has male and female drug users. Demographic data in relation to the age, gender and level of education can be used to describe the use of khat in African countries. The table below summarizes the khat drug use: (Al†Hebshi & Skaug, 2005). According to Al†Hebshi & Skaug, 2005, statistics show that in Africa, the female and male youth have insignificant differences in the percent drug users at the same educational level. School going youth below the age of twenty years are the majority consumers of khat as compared to those in college with over 20 years of age. It is shown that khat use is high among the urban poor and those in informal settlements, suburbs, the illiterate, and those in informal employment. Majority of the users tend to consume khat on daily basis, the least number are the monthly users. That is: The usage patterns and trends therefore show that khat is highly addictive and use can lead to dependence. Many consume the drug on daily basis. Eighty seven point seven percent is significantly huge value. The effects, signs and symptoms vary. They can be categorized as short term and long term effects. Nencini, P., Ahmed, A. M., & Elmi, A. S, 1986) argue that short term effects include: irritability, a feeling of excitement, euphoria, physical exhaustion, difficulties in breathing, constipation, increased heart rate and blood pumping, hallucinations, feeling of hyperactivity, manic behavior, increased alertness and concentration as well as increased motor activity. Long term signs and symptoms due to khat use include: Anorexia, gastric disorders, depression and elevated stress levels, heart diseases and cancer, tachycardia, liver complications and damage, cardiac complications among