1
|
Wood EA, Stark H, Case SJ, Sousa B, Moreno M, Motuma A, Wilfong T. Khat use and related determinants among pregnant women within Haramaya, Ethiopia: a mixed methods study. Front Glob Womens Health 2024; 5:1359689. [PMID: 38784944 PMCID: PMC11112567 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2024.1359689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Khat, a green leafy plant grown in East Africa and throughout the Arabian Peninsula, is chewed for its psychoactive and amphetamine-like effects, serving as a significant aspect of culture, economic livelihood, and global trade. Khat consumption during pregnancy has been associated with adverse effects, including anemia, premature rupture of membranes, and low birth weight, among others. Methods This cross-sectional, explanatory sequential mixed methods study was conducted in the Haramaya District of eastern Ethiopia using a questionnaire and focus group discussions. Questionnaires assessed socio-demographic information, pregnancy history, and diet, including khat use. Data were analyzed using SPSS v28 to include descriptive statistics, proportions, odds ratios, binary logistic regression, and chi-square analysis. FGDs expanded on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of khat in the region, including pregnant or lactating women from two different kebeles. Two independent reviewers conducted a qualitative content analysis to examine the qualitative findings from the FGDs. Transcripts from the focus groups were entered into NVivo 14 to aid in capturing salient themes. Results A total of 444 pregnant women with a median age of 25 years completed the questionnaire. Two-thirds of the women, 66.9%, reported currently consuming khat while pregnant, and 72.7% of them reported daily consumption. The FGD analysis resulted in the discovery of five themes: Economic Livelihood, Maternal Significance, Medicinal Implications of Khat, Pesticide Use, and Social and Cultural Applications. Discussion This study revealed an alarming high prevalence of khat consumption among pregnant women in the Haramaya District, highlighting the pressing need for long-term studies to assess the health consequences. The role of khat as both an economic staple and an energy source for daily activities underscores the challenges in curbing its use. The documented health risks associated with the chemicals used in khat cultivation, including cancer, call for interventions to enhance safe agricultural practices in households involved in khat farming.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Wood
- Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States
| | - Heather Stark
- College of Public Health & Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Stuart J. Case
- College of Public Health & Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Barbara Sousa
- College of Public Health & Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Melanie Moreno
- College of Public Health & Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Aboma Motuma
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Tara Wilfong
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Budambula V, Ngari M, Budambula NLM, Ahmed AA, Were T. Nutritional status of people who inject drugs in Coastal Kenya: a cross-sectional study. BMC Nutr 2024; 10:55. [PMID: 38576036 PMCID: PMC10996164 DOI: 10.1186/s40795-024-00851-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite documentation on injection drug use (IDU) in Kenya, the nutritional status of people who inject drugs (PWIDs) is under-explored. Elsewhere studies report under-nutrition among PWIDs which is attributed to food insecurity; competing priorities between drugs and food supply; chaotic lifestyle; reduced food intake; substance use induced malnutrition due to inflammation and comorbidities. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study that sought to assess the nutritional status of PWIDs in Coastal Kenya. We recruited 752 participants of whom 371(49%) were on IDUs and 75 non-IDUs and 306 non-drug users using respondent driven sampling, traditional snowball, makeshift outreach and purposive sampling methods. RESULTS More than one half of the participants (56%) had BMI classified as normal while 35% had BMI < 18.5. The proportion with BMI < 18.5 was higher among IDUs (46%) compared to the non-IDUs (33%) and non-drug users (23%) at P < 0.001. Using the mid upper arm circumference (MUAC), 17% were classified as underweight and the proportion was lowest (11%) among non- drugs users compared to 22% among IDUs (P < 0.001). However, the IDUs had lower proportion of overweight (8.1%) compared to 55% among the non- drug users. The proportion with low waist-for-hip ratio was highest among the IDUs (74%) while high waist-for-hip ratio was lowest in the same group of IDUs (11%) at P < 0.001. One half (50%), of the participants had no signs of anaemia, (47%) had mild/moderate anaemia while 21 (2.8%) had severe anaemia. However, IDUs were more likely to be overweight based on waist circumference as a parameter. The IDUs had the highest proportion (54%) of mild to moderate anaemia compared to non-IDUs (37%) and 40% non- drug users (P < 0.001). In the multivariable models, IDUs (aRRR 2.83 (95%CI 1.84‒4.35)) and non-IDUs (aRRR 1.42 (95%CI 1.07‒1.88)) compared to non- drug users were positively associated with BMI < 18.5. Being an IDU was positively associated with mild or moderate anaemia (aRRR 1.65 (95%CI 1.13‒2.41)) while non-IDUs were positively associated with severe anaemia (aRRR 1.69 (95%CI 1.16‒2.48)). CONCLUSION A significant proportion of the participants were under-nourished with those injecting drugs bearing the heaviest brunt. Being an IDU was positively associated with the low BMI, MUAC, waist for hip ratio and mild or moderate anaemia but high waist circumference. People who inject drugs have high risk for under-nutrition and should be targeted with appropriate interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentine Budambula
- Department of Environment and Health Sciences, Technical University of Mombasa, Mombasa, P. O. Box 90420-80100, Kenya.
| | - Moses Ngari
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Public Health, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Tom Were
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kakamega, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mechlowitz K, Singh N, Li X, Chen D, Yang Y, Rabil A, Cheraso AJ, Ahmed IA, Amin JK, Gebreyes WA, Hassen JY, Ibrahim AM, Manary MJ, Rajashekara G, Roba KT, Usmane IA, Havelaar AH, McKune SL. Women's empowerment and child nutrition in a context of shifting livelihoods in Eastern Oromia, Ethiopia. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1048532. [PMID: 37457972 PMCID: PMC10338874 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1048532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Agriculture, and particularly livestock and animal source foods, has been closely linked to improvements in human nutrition. Production, income, and women's empowerment improve household food security and child nutritional outcomes in interacting ways. Khat production in Eastern Ethiopia is changing the economic and livelihood landscape for communities that have traditionally relied upon small-scale mixed agriculture and livestock production. How this shifting livelihood landscape and the empowerment of women in these communities are affecting nutritional outcomes has not been investigated. Using cross-sectional data collected during formative research for the Campylobacter Genomics and Environmental Enteric Dysfunction (CAGED) project, we developed models to examine the roles of livelihood activities, including livestock production, staple crop production, and khat production, and women's empowerment in child nutrition outcomes. Survey participants were randomly selected mothers of children aged 10-15 months from Haramaya district, Eastern Hararghe, Oromia, Ethiopia. Nested logistic regression models were performed for each nutrition outcome: children's animal source food consumption, children's dietary diversity, and child stunting, wasting, and underweight. Explanatory variables included those for livelihood (tropical livestock unit, crop production, and khat production ladder) and women's empowerment (as indicated by domains of the Women's Empowerment in Agriculture Index), and covariates including child sex, mother's age, mother's education, assets, income, and kebele. Results indicated that khat production and tropical livestock units were not significantly associated with any of the child nutrition outcomes. However, results did indicate that the odds of reporting child animal source food consumption in households where the mother was empowered in the leadership domain was 3.33 times that in households where the mother wasn't (p < 0.05). In addition, the odds of having a stunted child in households where the mother was empowered in the time domain was 2.68 times that in households where the mother wasn't (p < 0.05). The results from this study both support and complicate the existing literature on the associations between women's empowerment in agriculture and child nutrition outcomes, underscoring the important role that livelihood, contextual factors, and location may have on the complex relationship between empowerment domains and nutritional outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karah Mechlowitz
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Nitya Singh
- Department of Animal Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Food Systems Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Xiaolong Li
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Dehao Chen
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Yang Yang
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Anna Rabil
- Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Adriana Joy Cheraso
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Ibsa Abdusemed Ahmed
- Department of Public Health and Health Policy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
- School of Public Health, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | - Jafer Kedir Amin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | - Wondwossen A. Gebreyes
- Global One Health Initiative, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Jemal Y. Hassen
- School of Rural Development and Agricultural Innovation, College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | | | - Mark J. Manary
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Gireesh Rajashekara
- Center for Food Animal Health, Department of Animal Sciences, College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, United States
| | - Kedir Teji Roba
- Department of Public Health and Health Policy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | - Ibsa Aliyi Usmane
- School of Rural Development and Agricultural Innovation, College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | - Arie H. Havelaar
- Department of Animal Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Food Systems Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Sarah L. McKune
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Center for African Studies, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Shaik Mohamed Sayed UF, Moshawih S, Goh HP, Kifli N, Gupta G, Singh SK, Chellappan DK, Dua K, Hermansyah A, Ser HL, Ming LC, Goh BH. Natural products as novel anti-obesity agents: insights into mechanisms of action and potential for therapeutic management. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1182937. [PMID: 37408757 PMCID: PMC10318930 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1182937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity affects more than 10% of the adult population globally. Despite the introduction of diverse medications aimed at combating fat accumulation and obesity, a significant number of these pharmaceutical interventions are linked to substantial occurrences of severe adverse events, occasionally leading to their withdrawal from the market. Natural products serve as attractive sources for anti-obesity agents as many of them can alter the host metabolic processes and maintain glucose homeostasis via metabolic and thermogenic stimulation, appetite regulation, pancreatic lipase and amylase inhibition, insulin sensitivity enhancing, adipogenesis inhibition and adipocyte apoptosis induction. In this review, we shed light on the biological processes that control energy balance and thermogenesis as well as metabolic pathways in white adipose tissue browning, we also highlight the anti-obesity potential of natural products with their mechanism of action. Based on previous findings, the crucial proteins and molecular pathways involved in adipose tissue browning and lipolysis induction are uncoupling protein-1, PR domain containing 16, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ in addition to Sirtuin-1 and AMP-activated protein kinase pathway. Given that some phytochemicals can also lower proinflammatory substances like TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1 secreted from adipose tissue and change the production of adipokines like leptin and adiponectin, which are important regulators of body weight, natural products represent a treasure trove for anti-obesity agents. In conclusion, conducting comprehensive research on natural products holds the potential to accelerate the development of an improved obesity management strategy characterized by heightened efficacy and reduced incidence of side effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Said Moshawih
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei
| | - Hui Poh Goh
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei
| | - Nurolaini Kifli
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur, India
- Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
| | - Sachin Kumar Singh
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, India
| | - Dinesh Kumar Chellappan
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kamal Dua
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India
| | - Andi Hermansyah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas AirlanggaSurabaya, Indonesia
| | - Hooi Leng Ser
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Long Chiau Ming
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas AirlanggaSurabaya, Indonesia
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Bey Hing Goh
- Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Magalhães M, Ojeda A, Mechlowitz K, Brittain K, Daniel J, Roba KT, Hassen JY, Manary MJ, Gebreyes WA, Havelaar AH, McKune SL. Socioecological predictors of breastfeeding practices in rural eastern Ethiopia. Int Breastfeed J 2022; 17:93. [PMID: 36578078 PMCID: PMC9795740 DOI: 10.1186/s13006-022-00531-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estimates by the World Health Organization indicate that over 800,000 global neonatal deaths each year are attributed to deviations from recommended best practices in infant feeding. Identifying factors promoting ideal breastfeeding practices may facilitate efforts to decrease neonatal and infant death rates and progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals set for 2030. Though numerous studies have identified the benefits of breastfeeding in reducing the risk of childhood undernutrition, infection and illness, and mortality in low- and middle-income countries, no studies have explored predictors of breastfeeding practices in rural eastern Ethiopia, where undernutrition is widespread. The aim of this study is to examine predictors of infant feeding practices in Haramaya, Ethiopia, using a multi-level conceptual framework. METHODS This study uses data collected from household questionnaires during the Campylobacter Genomics and Environmental Enteric Dysfunction (CAGED) project among 102 households in the Haramaya woreda, Eastern Hararghe Zone, Eastern Ethiopia, and investigates factors influencing breastfeeding practices: early initiation, prelacteal feeding, and untimely complementary feeding. RESULTS Nearly half (47.9%) of infants in this study were non-exclusively breastfed (n = 96). Generalized liner mixed effects models of breastfeeding practices revealed that prelacteal feeding may be a common practice in the region (43.9%, n = 98) and characterized by gender differences (p = .03). No factors evaluated were statistically significantly predictive of early initiation and untimely complementary feeding (82% and 14%, respectively). Severely food insecure mothers had more than 72% lower odds of early breastfeeding initiation, and participants who self-reported as being illiterate had 1.53 times greater odds of untimely complementary feeding (95% CI, [0.30,7.69]) followed by male children having 1.45 greater odds of being untimely complementary fed compared to female (95% CI,[0.40,5.37]). CONCLUSIONS This study found high rates of prelacteal feeding and low prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding, with girls more likely to be exclusively breastfed. While no predictors evaluated in this multi-level framework were associated with prevalence of early initiation or complementary feeding, rates may be clinically meaningful in a region burdened by undernutrition. Findings raise questions about gendered breastfeeding norms, the under-examined role of khat consumption on infant feeding, and the complex factors that affect breastfeeding practices in this region. This information may be used to guide future research questions and inform intervention strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Magalhães
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA ,grid.168010.e0000000419368956Present address: Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Amanda Ojeda
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Animal Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA ,grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Karah Mechlowitz
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health, University of Florida, 1225 Center Dr., Gainesville, FL 32603 USA
| | - Kaitlin Brittain
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health, University of Florida, 1225 Center Dr., Gainesville, FL 32603 USA
| | - Jenna Daniel
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, USA
| | - Kedir Teji Roba
- grid.192267.90000 0001 0108 7468School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Jemal Yousuf Hassen
- grid.192267.90000 0001 0108 7468Department of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Haramaya University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Mark J. Manary
- grid.4367.60000 0001 2355 7002Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, USA
| | - Wondwossen A. Gebreyes
- grid.261331.40000 0001 2285 7943Global One Health Initiative, The Ohio State University, Columbus, USA
| | - Arie H. Havelaar
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Animal Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA ,grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA ,grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Institute for Sustainable Food Systems, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Sarah L. McKune
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health, University of Florida, 1225 Center Dr., Gainesville, FL 32603 USA ,grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Center for African Studies, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Minas S, Ayele BH, Sisay M, Fage SG. Undernutrition among khat-chewer and non-chewer lactating women in Chiro district, eastern Ethiopia: Comparative cross-sectional study. SAGE Open Med 2022; 10:20503121221100143. [PMID: 35646352 PMCID: PMC9136449 DOI: 10.1177/20503121221100143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to assess the prevalence of undernutrition and factors
associated with it among khat-chewer and non-chewer lactating women at Chiro
district, west Hararghe zone, eastern Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 446
(223 khat chewers and 223 non-chewers) randomly selected lactating women who
have children aged 6 and 23 months. Data were collected through face-to-face
interviews using structured questionnaires followed by weight and height
measurements to calculate and categorize nutritional status based on body
mass index (kg/m2). Data were entered into EpiData version 3.1
and analyzed using STATA version 14.2. A binary logistic regression model
was fitted to check the association between independent variables and
undernutrition. The level of statistical significance was declared at a
p-value less than 0.05. Results: The overall prevalence of undernutrition among lactating women was 30.7% (95%
confidence interval = 26.6, 35.2). Undernutrition was significantly higher
among khat chewers, 39.0% (95% confidence interval = 32.8, 45.6) than
non-chewers, 22.4% (95% confidence interval = 17.4, 28.4), (χ2
(degree of freedom) = 14.4231, p < 0.0001). Chewing daily (adjusted odds
ratio = 3.14, 95% confidence interval = 1.08, 9.15), reducing number of
meals after chewing (adjusted odds ratio = 3.45, 95% confidence
interval = 1.29, 9.20), and unavailability of latrine (adjusted odds
ratio = 2.98, 95% confidence interval = 1.02, 8.75) were significantly
associated with undernutrition among khat-chewer lactating women.
Furthermore, age at first pregnancy (<18 years) (adjusted odds
ratio = 3.17, 95% confidence interval = 1.17, 8.60), not taking any
additional meals (adjusted odds ratio = 3.41, 95% confidence
interval = 1.08, 10.7), and hand washing after toilet use (adjusted odds
ratio = 6.10, 95% confidence interval = 2.51, 14.8) were significantly
associated with undernutrition among non-chewer lactating women. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of undernutrition is higher than previous studies and
is alarming among khat-chewer lactating mothers. Thus, nutritional and
public health interventions should target khat-chewer lactating mothers
particularly focusing on daily chewer either to improve their dietary
practice during and after chewing or to stop khat chewing if possible, in
order to reduce the effect of khat on food absorption. Besides, improving
latrine coverage and use, and prevention of early pregnancy are of paramount
importance in reducing undernutrition among lactating mothers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Selamu Minas
- West Hararghe Zonal Health Department, Chiro, Ethiopia
| | - Behailu Hawulte Ayele
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Mekonnen Sisay
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Sagni Girma Fage
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ye S, Hu J, Liu Z, Liang M. Progress and Research Trends on Catha edulis (Vahl) Endl. ( Catha edulis): A Review and Bibliometric Analysis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:705376. [PMID: 34867319 PMCID: PMC8632648 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.705376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Catha edulis (Vahl) Endl., known as Catha edulis or Khat is a traditional and regional plant for chewing, smoking and drinking, that has posed a worldwide public health problem due to its recent emerging abused consumption. In the face of the massive use of Catha edulis, we reviewed related publications to analyze the progress and research trends through bibliometric methods. After screening, a total of 514 scientific publications published from 1997 to 2020 were included by systematic retrieval from the Web of Science (WoS) database. According to further scientometric analysis, the annual number of publications output kept rising in most of the years. Ethiopia and the United States of America (USA) have been devoting significant contributions to the field. Though the research emphasis had been the chemical composition and pharmacological and toxicological effects for several years, the hot spots were transferred; the mechanism investigations of Catha edulis have been the focus in recent years, which might be continued in the future. Furthermore, co-operations of multi-disciplinary researchers are needed to minimize abuse harms and maximize the medicinal benefits of Catha edulis to human beings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Ye
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jin Hu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zilong Liu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Man Liang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Geset Haile D, Sharew NT, Mekuria AD, Abebe AM, Mezemir Y. Prevalence of Hypertension and Associated Factors Among Adults in Debre Berhan Town, North Shoa Zone, Ethiopia, 2020. Vasc Health Risk Manag 2021; 17:203-210. [PMID: 33981144 PMCID: PMC8107055 DOI: 10.2147/vhrm.s297403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hypertension is a serious medical condition that significantly increases the risks of heart, brain, kidney, and other diseases. The prevalence is highest in Africa (27%) and lowest in America (18%). Hypertension is a major reason for premature death worldwide; this is why it will become a targeted non-communicable disease by 2025. OBJECTIVE To assess the prevalence of hypertension and associated factors among adults in Debre Berhan town, Amhara region, Ethiopia. METHODS A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 680 participants who were selected by a systematic sampling technique. Data were checked, cleaned, and entered into Epi-data then exported to SPSS-23 for analysis. Hosmer-Lemeshow test was used to check the model fitness. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to see the association between dependent and independent variables. All variables with p <0.25 were taken into the multivariable model to minimize the possible confounders. The multi collinearity test was carried out to see the correlation between independent variables by using a variance inflation factor (VIF). The odds ratio along with 95% CI were estimated to measure the strength of association and to identify factors associated with hypertension using multivariable logistic regression. Descriptive statistics in the form of tables, figures, percent with measure of central tendency and dispersion with multivariable analysis were used to report the findings and to identify the factors associated with the outcome variable at a p<0.05. RESULTS Among 680 participants, the prevalence of hypertension was 27.5%. Sex, being male (AOR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.12-2.81), alcohol consumption (AOR: 2.76: 95% CI: 1.87-4.05), physical exercise (AOR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.28-3.71), being overweight (AOR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.11-3.58), and family history of hypertension (AOR: 2.10, 95% CI: 1.43-3.08) were found to be significantly associated with hypertension. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION Prevalence of hypertension in Debre Berhan town was relatively high compared with other studies. So, it is necessary to emphasize intervention in the community for behavioral change, in order to minimize alcohol consumption and to encourage adoption of regular physical exercise, with the existing health system and partners working on hypertension.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Demelash Geset Haile
- Debre Berhan Health Science College, Department of Nursing, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | - Nigussie Taddess Sharew
- Debre Berhan University Health Science College, Department of Nursing, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | - Abinet Dagnaw Mekuria
- Debre Berhan University Health Science Colleges, Department of Public Health, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | - Ayele Mamo Abebe
- Debre Berhan University Health Science College, Department of Nursing, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | - Yordanos Mezemir
- Debre Berhan Health Science College, Department of Nursing, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang K, Duan Y, Chen H, Hu J, Liang M. The rise of global research trends on cathinones during 1994-2018: lessons from a systematic bibliometric analysis. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2021.1916841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kang Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Yijie Duan
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Haihong Chen
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Jin Hu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Man Liang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology, Ministry of Public Security, People’s Republic of China (Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau), Beijing, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Angoa-Pérez M, Kuhn DM. Evidence for Modulation of Substance Use Disorders by the Gut Microbiome: Hidden in Plain Sight. Pharmacol Rev 2021; 73:571-596. [PMID: 33597276 PMCID: PMC7896134 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome modulates neurochemical function and behavior and has been implicated in numerous central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including developmental, neurodegenerative, and psychiatric disorders. Substance use disorders (SUDs) remain a serious threat to the public well-being, yet gut microbiome involvement in drug abuse has received very little attention. Studies of the mechanisms underlying SUDs have naturally focused on CNS reward circuits. However, a significant body of research has accumulated over the past decade that has unwittingly provided strong support for gut microbiome participation in drug reward. β-Lactam antibiotics have been employed to increase glutamate transporter expression to reverse relapse-induced release of glutamate. Sodium butyrate has been used as a histone deacetylase inhibitor to prevent drug-induced epigenetic alterations. High-fat diets have been used to alter drug reward because of the extensive overlap of the circuitry mediating them. This review article casts these approaches in a different light and makes a compelling case for gut microbiome modulation of SUDs. Few factors alter the structure and composition of the gut microbiome more than antibiotics and a high-fat diet, and butyrate is an endogenous product of bacterial fermentation. Drugs such as cocaine, alcohol, opiates, and psychostimulants also modify the gut microbiome. Therefore, their effects must be viewed on a complex background of cotreatment-induced dysbiosis. Consideration of the gut microbiome in SUDs should have the beneficial effects of expanding the understanding of SUDs and aiding in the design of new therapies based on opposing the effects of abused drugs on the host's commensal bacterial community. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Proposed mechanisms underlying substance use disorders fail to acknowledge the impact of drugs of abuse on the gut microbiome. β-Lactam antibiotics, sodium butyrate, and high-fat diets are used to modify drug seeking and reward, overlooking the notable capacity of these treatments to alter the gut microbiome. This review aims to stimulate research on substance abuse-gut microbiome interactions by illustrating how drugs of abuse share with antibiotics, sodium butyrate, and fat-laden diets the ability to modify the host microbial community.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Angoa-Pérez
- Research and Development Service, John D. Dingell VA Medical Center, and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Donald M Kuhn
- Research and Development Service, John D. Dingell VA Medical Center, and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Alshagga MA, Mohamed Z, Seyedan A, Ebling FJP, Alshawsh MA. Khat (Catha edulis) upregulates lipolytic genes in white adipose tissue of male obese mice (C57BL/6J). JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 262:113187. [PMID: 32730892 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Khat (Catha edulis (Vahl) Forssk.) is a herb from the Celastraceae family (also known as qat, gaad, or mirra) that is widely-consumed in East Africa and in the Arabian peninsula. The green leaves and small stems are consumed primarily at recreational and social gatherings, and medicinally for their antidiabetic and appetite-suppression effects. AIMS The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of khat and its active alkaloid, cathinone, on food intake and body weight in mice maintained on a high-fat diet, and to investigate its mechanism of action in white adipose tissue and in the hypothalamus. MATERIALS & METHOD Adult male mice (C57BL/6J) were fed a high fat diet (HFD) for 8 weeks (n = 30), then divided into 5 groups and treated daily for a further 8 weeks with HFD + vehicle [control (HFD)], HFD + 15 mg/kg orlistat (HFDO), HFD + 200 mg/kg khat extract (HFDK200), HFD + 400 mg/kg khat extract (HFDK400) and HFD + 3.2 mg/kg cathinone (HFDCAT). Treatments were carried out once daily by gastric gavage. Blood and tissue samples were collected for biochemical, hormonal and gene expression analyses. RESULTS Khat extracts and orlistat treatment significantly reduced weight gain as compared to control mice on HFD, and cathinone administration completely prevented weight gain in mice fed on HFD. Khat treatment caused a marked reduction in body fat and in serum triglycerides. A dose-dependent effect of khat was observed in reducing serum leptin concentrations. Analysis of gene expression in adipose tissue revealed a significant upregulation of two lipolysis pathway genes:(adipose triglyceride lipase (PNPLA-2) and hormone-sensitive lipase (LIPE). In the hypothalamic there was a significant (P < 0.05) upregulation of agouti-related peptide (AgRP) and cocaine-amphetamine regulated transcript (CART) genes in the HFDK400 and HFDCAT groups. CONCLUSION Cathinone treatment blocked body weight gain, while high dose khat extract significantly reduced the weight gain of mice on an obesogenic diet through stimulation of lipolysis in white adipose tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Ahmed Alshagga
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science & Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, Jalan Broga, 43500, Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Zahurin Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Atefehalsadat Seyedan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Francis J P Ebling
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, United Kingdom.
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kalyanasundar B, Perez CI, Arroyo B, Moreno MG, Gutierrez R. The Appetite Suppressant D-norpseudoephedrine (Cathine) Acts via D1/D2-Like Dopamine Receptors in the Nucleus Accumbens Shell. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:572328. [PMID: 33177980 PMCID: PMC7596745 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.572328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
D-norpseudoephedrine (NPE), also known as cathine, is found naturally in the shrub Catha edulis “Khat.” NPE has been widely used as an appetite suppressant for the treatment of obesity. Although it is known that NPE acts on α1-adrenergic receptors, there is little information about the role of dopamine receptors on NPE’s induced anorectic and weight loss effects. Equally untouched is the question of how NPE modulates neuronal activity in the nucleus accumbens shell (NAcSh), a brain reward center, and a pharmacological target for many appetite suppressants. To do this, in rats, we characterized the pharmacological effects induced by NPE on weight loss, food intake, and locomotion. We also determined the involvement of dopamine D1- and D2-like receptors using systemic and intra-NAcSh antagonists, and finally, we recorded single-unit activity in the NAcSh in freely moving rats. We found that NPE decreased 24-h food intake, induced weight loss, and as side effects increased locomotor activity and wakefulness. Also, intraperitoneal and intra-NAcSh administration of D1 and D2 dopamine antagonists partially reversed NPE’s induced weight loss and food intake suppression. Furthermore, the D1 antagonist, SCH-23390, eliminated NPE-induced locomotion, whereas the D2 antagonist, raclopride, only delayed its onset. We also found that NPE evoked a net activation imbalance in NAcSh that propelled the population activity trajectories into a dynamic pharmacological brain state, which correlated with the onset of NPE-induced wakefulness. Together, our data demonstrate that NPE modulates NAcSh spiking activity and that both dopamine D1 and D2 receptors are necessary for NPE’s induced food intake suppression and weight loss.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Kalyanasundar
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Appetite, Department of Pharmacology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Claudia I Perez
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Appetite, Department of Pharmacology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Benjamin Arroyo
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Appetite, Department of Pharmacology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mario Gil Moreno
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Appetite, Department of Pharmacology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ranier Gutierrez
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Appetite, Department of Pharmacology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV), Mexico City, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kennedy C, Okanya P, Nyariki JN, Amwayi P, Jillani N, Isaac AO. Coenzyme Q 10 nullified khat-induced hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity and inflammation in a mouse model. Heliyon 2020; 6:e04917. [PMID: 32984611 PMCID: PMC7498867 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ethnopharmacological relevance The consumption of khat (Catha Edulis, Forsk) is on the rise despite the much publicized associated deleterious health effects. How chemicals present in khat, affect various physiological and biochemical processes requires further scrutiny. A clear understanding of these processes will provide an avenue for countering khat-driven negative effects using appropriate pharmacological and/or nutritional interventions. Aim of the study The current study investigated the effect of khat on vital physiological and biochemical processes such as oxidative stress, inflammation and immune responses and the role of Coenzyme-Q10 (CoQ10), a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, in modulating any negative effects due to khat exposure. Methodology Three (3) weeks old forty (40) Swiss albino mice were randomly assigned into four treatment groups (n = 10). The first group was the control that was not administered with khat or CoQ10. The second group received 200 mg/kg body weight (b/w) of CoQ10, while the third group received 1500 mg/kg b/w of khat extract and finally the forth group was co-treated with 200 mg/kg b/w of CoQ10 and 1500 mg/kg b/w of khat extract. The experiment was conducted for 90 days after which samples were collected for physiological and biochemical analyses. Results The effects of khat and CoQ10 on the weights of brain, liver, kidney and spleen was determined. Administration of khat decreased the levels of RBCs and its subtypes (MCV, MCH, RDW-SD and RDW-CV), a clear indicator of khat-induced normochromic microcytic anemia. White blood cells (lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils and eosinophil) which are vital in responding to infections were markedly elevated by khat. Moreover, these results provide evidence for khat-induced liver and kidney injury as shown by increased biomarkers; AST, ALT, GGT and creatinine respectively. Standard histopathological analysis confirmed this finding for khat-driven liver and kidney injury. Further studies showed evidence for khat-induced inflammation and oxidative stress as depicted by increased levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha and elevation of GSH in the brain, liver and spleen. Remarkably, this is the first study to demonstrate the potential of CoQ10 in ameliorating khat-induced negative effects as outlined. CoQ10 supplementation restored the khat-induced reduction in RBC subtypes, and was protective against liver and kidney injury as shown by the appropriate biomarkers and standard histopathology analysis. The other significant finding was the CoQ10-driven normalization of GSH and TNF-α levels, indicating a protective effect from khat-driven oxidative stress and inflammation respectively. Conclusion From this study, we conclude that CoQ10 may be useful in nullifying khat-driven deleterious events among chronic khat users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chepukosi Kennedy
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Technical University of Kenya, P. O. Box 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya.,School of Biological and Life Sciences, Technical University of Kenya, P. O. Box 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Patrick Okanya
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Technical University of Kenya, P. O. Box 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya.,School of Biological and Life Sciences, Technical University of Kenya, P. O. Box 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - James Nyabuga Nyariki
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Technical University of Kenya, P. O. Box 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya.,School of Biological and Life Sciences, Technical University of Kenya, P. O. Box 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Peris Amwayi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Technical University of Kenya, P. O. Box 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya.,School of Biological and Life Sciences, Technical University of Kenya, P. O. Box 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ngalla Jillani
- Institute of Primates Research, P.O. Box 24481, Karen, 00502, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Alfred Orina Isaac
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Technical University of Kenya, P. O. Box 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya.,School of Health Sciences and Technology, Technical University of Kenya, P. O. Box 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Phytochemical Screening and Cytotoxic Properties of Ethanolic Extract of Young and Mature Khat Leaves. J CHEM-NY 2020. [DOI: 10.1155/2020/7897435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The khat plant has been culturally used in many parts of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula for many years to induce psycho-stimulating effect. Because of the global wide-spreading nature, khat chewing is being considered as a universally growing problem. Catha abbottii, Catha edulis, and Catha transvaalensis are the three species of khat commonly chewed in Saudi Arabia and nearby regions. Khat users usually prefer to chew young leaves over mature ones due to the diverse effects produced by both. Though many of the constituents of khat leaves have been identified, the complete phytochemical profile of young and mature leaves was not performed or compared; also, no evidence is available to affirm the cytotoxicity of young or mature leaves. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the phytochemical basis of the differential response of the young and mature leaves and to assess the cytotoxicity of young and mature khat leaves. Ethanolic extracts of young and mature leaves of three khat cultivars were subjected to GC-MS. Hierarchical cluster analysis revealed the existence of two major clusters. The extracts of young leaves were found to contain the maximum content of cathinone; however, methoxyamphetamine was found in only one extract of young leaves. Cytotoxicity investigations were also conducted on both types of leaves using three cancer cell lines, human breast adenocarcinoma, human ovary adenocarcinoma, and human colon adenocarcinoma and also normal human fetal lung fibroblast cell line was used. All extracts showed comparable cytotoxicity, IC50 ranging from 22–59 μg/mL on the cancer cells; however, we observed more cytotoxicity against normal cells (IC50: 6–41 μg/mL). The predominant cytotoxicity on normal cells may pose many health hazards to khat consumers.
Collapse
|
15
|
Dhabbah AM. Determination of chiral cathinone in fresh samples of Catha edulis. Forensic Sci Int 2020; 307:110105. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.110105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
|
16
|
Geta TG, Woldeamanuel GG, Hailemariam BZ, Bedada DT. Association of Chronic Khat Chewing with Blood Pressure and Predictors of Hypertension Among Adults in Gurage Zone, Southern Ethiopia: A Comparative Study. Integr Blood Press Control 2019; 12:33-42. [PMID: 31908523 PMCID: PMC6929923 DOI: 10.2147/ibpc.s234671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The leaves of the Khat plant contain amphetamine-like compounds which are implicated in the development of hypertension. The increase in blood pressure coincides with the plasma cathinone level. Other factors associated with hypertension are being overweight, obesity, cigarette smoking, alcohol use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, and stress. Thus, this study assessed the association of chronic khat chewing with hypertension and other factors associated with hypertension. Patients and Methods Acommunity based comparative cross-sectional study was undertaken from October 5, 2018 to February 15, 2019 in Gurage zone, southern Ethiopia. A total of 1200 adults (600 chewers and 600 non-chewers) aged 18 − 65 years were selected using a convenience sampling method. The data was collected by an interviewer-administered questionnaire plus physical measurements and were carried out at a fixed time of the day in the morning (7: 00 am–10:00 am). Linear regression and binary logistic regression analysis were performed to identify the determinant factors of blood pressure. The test of statistically significant association was declared by using 95% CI and p-value less than 0.05. Results A total of 1198 adults participated in the study giving a response rate of 99.8%. The mean age of Khat chewers were 34 (± 11.27) and non-chewers were 34.73 (± 11.48) years. The mean values of systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were higher in chewers than in non-chewers (p < 0.001). The prevalence of diastolic blood pressure > 80mmHg was significantly higher among Khat chewers than in non-chewers (17.4% versus 8.7%, p < 0.001). The duration of Khat chewing was significantly associated with systolic blood pressure (Beta coefficient = 0.83, p < 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (Beta coefficient = 0.51, p < 0.001). The sex, age, BMI and alcohol were significantly associated with both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Conclusion Chronic Khat chewing, male sex, BMI and alcohol were associated with increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure. To assess the cause and effect relationship between chronic Khat chewing and hypertension further studies with better defined cohorts and basic science studies need to be undertaken.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teshome Gensa Geta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Gashaw Garedew Woldeamanuel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Bereket Zeleke Hailemariam
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Diribsa Tsegaye Bedada
- Department of Statistics, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tesfay K, Abera M, Wondafrash M, Tesfaye M. Effect of Khat Use During Pregnancy on the Birth Weight of Newborn in Jimma, Ethiopia. Int J Ment Health Addict 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-018-9888-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
|
18
|
Association between qat chewing and dyslipidaemia among young males. J Taibah Univ Med Sci 2019; 14:538-546. [PMID: 31908642 PMCID: PMC6940620 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2019.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study investigated the association between qat chewing and prevalence and patterns of dyslipidaemia among young Yemeni males. Methods In this cross-sectional study, we used a multistage random cluster sampling method. Data were obtained using a questionnaire. Additionally, anthropometric measurements and fasting blood samples were collected. We used Program-Adult Treatment Panel III. The blood samples were analysed for lipid profile measurements including levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Results A total of 440 Yemeni male with mean age of 21.4 ± 3.6 years were enrolled. The students were divided into the following two groups—qat chewers (n = 283) and non-qat chewers (n = 77). The overall occurrence of dyslipidaemia was significantly higher in qat chewers than that in non-qat chewers (89.8% versus 80.5%) (P < 0.05). Hypercholesterolaemia, hypertriglyceridaemia, high LDL-C level, and mixed hyperlipidaemia were lower in qat chewers than in non-qat chewers (16.6%, 58.3%, 16.3%, and 10.6%, respectively, versus 20.8%, 64.9%, 18.2%, and 20.8%, respectively). Isolated hypertriglyceridaemia was slightly higher in qat chewers than in non-qat chewers (47.7% versus 44.2%). However, the incidence of low HDL-C level, isolated low HDL-C level, and isolated hypercholesterolaemia were generally higher in qat chewers than in non-qat chewers (83%, 25.1%, and 6%, respectively, versus 75.3%, 15.6%, and 0%, respectively). Conclusion This study showed high prevalence of dyslipidaemia among Yemeni male qat chewers. Low HDL-C level was the main lipid variable, followed by hypertriglyceridaemia. Genetic factors, war conditions, physical inactivity, and low-fat traditional Yemeni diet were considered the determinants of the study findings.
Collapse
|
19
|
Gonçalves JL, Alves VL, Aguiar J, Teixeira HM, Câmara JS. Synthetic cathinones: an evolving class of new psychoactive substances. Crit Rev Toxicol 2019; 49:549-566. [PMID: 31747318 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2019.1679087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones (SCat) are amphetamine-like psychostimulants that emerged onto drug markets as "legal" alternatives to illicit drugs such as ecstasy, cocaine, and amphetamines. Usually they are sold as "bath salts," "plant food," or "research chemicals," and rapidly gained popularity amongst drugs users due to their potency, low cost, and availability. In addition, internet drug sales have been replacing the old way of supplying drugs of abuse, contributing to their rapid spread. Despite the legislative efforts to control SCat, new derivatives continue to emerge on the recreational drugs market and their abuse still represents a serious public health issue. To date, about 150 SCat have been identified on the clandestine drugs market, which are one of the largest groups of new psychoactive substances (NPS) monitored by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the European Monitoring Center for Drugs and Drug Addiction. Similar to the classical stimulants, SCat affect the levels of catecholamines in the central nervous system, which results in their psychological, behavioral and toxic effects. Generally, the effects of SCat greatly differ from drug to drug and relatively little information is available about their pharmacology. The present work provides a review on the development of SCat as substances of abuse, current patterns of abuse and their legal status, chemical classification, known mechanisms of action, and their toxicological effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- João L Gonçalves
- CQM - Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| | - Vera L Alves
- CQM - Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| | - Joselin Aguiar
- CQM - Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| | - Helena M Teixeira
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses, IP, Delegação Centro, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - José S Câmara
- CQM - Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal.,Faculdade de Ciências Exactas e da Engenharia, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Al-Duais MA, Al-Awthan YS. Prevalence of dyslipidemia among students of a Yemeni University. J Taibah Univ Med Sci 2019; 14:163-171. [PMID: 31435407 PMCID: PMC6694883 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2018.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 12/25/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives To estimate the prevalence of dyslipidemia and patterns of lipid profile and associated factors among Yemeni university students. Methods This cross-sectional study included 240 Yemeni students (116 males and 124 females) at Ibb University. The students were randomly selected from various faculties of the university. Demographic and clinical data were obtained from all participants. Fasting blood specimens were collected from all students for measurement of serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). The criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP-ATP III) were used. Results The mean age of the studied cohort was 19.8 ± 1.8 years; 48.3% were men and 51.7% were women. About 56.7% of the participants were from rural areas. Qat chewers and cigarette smokers comprised 63.3% and 6.7% of the cohort, respectively. No obese students were found in this study; however, 11.7% were overweight. The overall prevalence of dyslipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, high LDL-C, and low HDL-C among the participating students were 86.7%, 21.7%, 23.8%, 31.7%, and 81.7%, respectively. Mixed hyperlipidemia was present in 8.8% of the students. The prevalence of isolated hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and low HDL-C was 12.9%, 15%, and 70%, respectively. Dyslipidemia was significantly associated with male sex, increasing age, urban residence, and medical and natural science faculties. In contrast, smoking, qat chewing, physical activity, and the consumption of fast food, fruits and vegetables, and fish were not significantly associated with dyslipidemia. Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the first human study conducted at Ibb University during wartime in Yemen. Dyslipidemia was highly prevalent among healthy Yemeni university students in Ibb city. Low HDL-C was the most prevalent type of dyslipidemia, followed by increased levels of LDL-C. Gender, age, residence, and type of faculty were also closely related to dyslipidemia. These results indicate the need for specialized programs to determine blood lipid levels and initiate intervention programs to reduce the prevalence and prevent the complications of dyslipidemia among Yemeni university students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A Al-Duais
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, KSA
| | - Yahya S Al-Awthan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ibb University, Ibb, Yemen
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Nakajima M, Hoffman R, Alsameai A, Khalil NS, al'Absi M. Development of the Khat Knowledge, Attitudes and Perception Scale. Drug Alcohol Rev 2018; 37:802-809. [PMID: 29931779 DOI: 10.1111/dar.12828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS Khat (Catha edulis) is a stimulant plant widely used in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Tobacco is often co-used with khat and its use has expanded to other parts of the world. Chronic khat use is associated with negative health consequences. There is a lack of research to develop a tool to assess attitudes toward khat use. This study aimed to develop a brief tool to assess attitude and perception related to khat (i.e. the Khat Knowledge, Attitudes and Perception Scale). DESIGN AND METHODS Four-hundred and three participants in Yemen (151 concurrent users of khat and tobacco, 141 khat-only users and 92 non-users of khat and tobacco) were asked about knowledge and attitudes related to khat. A principle component analysis with Promax rotation, Scree-plot and Cronbach's α coefficients was performed to examine psychometric properties of the Khat Knowledge, Attitudes and Perception Scale. RESULTS Principle component analysis revealed five factors: negative beliefs, positive beliefs, idleness, weight control and family issues. Internal consistency of items in negative beliefs, positive beliefs, idleness, weight control and family issues were 0.88, 0.62, 0.62, 0.72 and 0.53, respectively. Greater negative beliefs was inversely correlated with positive beliefs but positively associated with idleness, weight control and family issues. Concurrent users and khat-only users had lower scores on negative beliefs than non-users. Concurrent users had higher scores on positive beliefs than khat-only and non-users. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS These results provide initial support of the usefulness of the Khat Knowledge, Attitudes and Perception Scale.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Motohiro Nakajima
- Department of Family Medicine and Biobehavioral Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, USA
| | - Richard Hoffman
- Department of Family Medicine and Biobehavioral Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, USA
| | - Abed Alsameai
- Department of Linguistics, Taiz University, Taiz, Yemen
| | | | - Mustafa al'Absi
- Department of Family Medicine and Biobehavioral Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Dhabbah A, Badjah-Hadj-Ahmed AY, Alawi A, Al Angari W, Alrayes B. Screening of psychoactive components in fresh khat using direct analysis in real time-time of flight-mass spectrometry. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.4103/sjfms.sjfms_2_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
|
23
|
Abera SF, Adane K. One-fourth of the prisoners are underweight in Northern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:449. [PMID: 28506311 PMCID: PMC5433041 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-017-4410-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the fact that prisoners are exposed to different health problems, prison health problems are often overlooked by researchers and no previous study has investigated nutritional problems of prisoners in Ethiopia. METHODS Cross-sectional data were collected from 809 prisoners from nine major prison setups in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. A proportional stratified sampling technique was used to select the total number of participants needed from each prison site. The outcome of this study was underweight defined as body mass index (BMI) of less than 18.5 kg/m2. Multivariable binary logistic regression was performed to identify determinants of underweight at a p-value of less than 0.05. RESULTS The prevalence of underweight was 25.2% (95% CI; 22.3%- 28.3%). Khat Chewing (OR = 2.08; 95% CI = 1.17, 3.70) and longer duration of incarceration (OR = 1.07; 95% CI = 1.01, 1.14) were associated with a significantly increased risk of underweight. Additionally, previous incarceration (OR = 1.54; 95% CI = 0.99, 2.42) was a relevant determinant of underweight with a borderline significance. In contrast, family support (OR = 0.61; 95% CI = 0.43, 0.85) and farmer occupation (OR = 0.59; 95% CI = 0.36, 0.98) compared to those who were unemployed were important protective determinants significantly associated with lower risk of underweight. CONCLUSION In summary, the burden of underweight was higher among prisoners in Tigray region who had respiratory tract infections. The study has enhanced our understanding of the determinants of underweight in the prison population. We strongly recommend that nutritional support, such as therapeutic feeding programs for severely or moderately underweight prisoners, and environmental health interventions of the prison setups should be urgently implemented to correct the uncovered nutritional problem and its associated factors for improving the health status of prisoners.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Semaw Ferede Abera
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia. .,Kilte Awlaelo- Health and Demographic Surveillance Site, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia.
| | - Kelemework Adane
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|