摘要：During the past 20 years or so, more has become known about the properties of khat,
its pharmacology, physiological and psychological effects on humans. However, at the same time
its reputation of social and recreational use in traditional contexts has hindered the dissemination
of knowledge about its detrimental effects in terms of mortality. This paper focuses on this
particular deficit and adds to the knowledge-base by reviewing the scant literature that does exist
on mortality associated with the trade and use of khat. We sought all peer-reviewed papers relating
to deaths associated with khat. From an initial list of 111, we identified 15 items meeting our
selection criteria. Examination of these revealed 61 further relevant items. These were supplemented
with published reports, newspaper and other media reports. A conceptual framework was
then developed for classifying mortality associated with each stage of the plant’s journey from its
cultivation, transportation, consumption, to its effects on the human body. The model is demonstrated
with concrete examples drawn from the above sources. These highlight a number of issues
for which more substantive statistical data are needed, including population-based studies of the
physiological and psychological determinants of khat-related fatalities. Khat-consuming communities,
and health professionals charged with their care should be more aware of the physiological
and psychological effects of khat, together with the risks for morbidity and mortality associated
with its use. There is also a need for information to be collected at international and national levels
on other causes of death associated with khat cultivation, transportation, and trade. Both these
dimensions need to be understood.
