Solomon E. Awoke, Mezinew Sintayoh and Kalayou K Berehe
Back ground: Khat (an ever green plant with amphetamine like properties) is widely consumed among the youth of Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Somalia and Yemen some of the countries are introducing control measures to discourage the cultivation and use of khat. Apart from habitual use of khat, it is reported that, which is used by students to improve their academic performance, by truck drivers to keep them Selves awake andby Laborers to supply the extra vigor and energy they need for their work.
Objective: To determine the prevalence and related consequence of khat chewing among students in CHS, Ayder campus, MU. From May to June 2011 G.C.
Methods : A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in may 2011 in CHS Ayder campus Mekelle university year 2 and 3 were selected by random sampling, lottery method self administered questionnaire was used to collect data.
Result: The study reviled 11.8% life time prevalence rate of khat chewing. Among those chewers 26% were add cigarette, 12% were add shisha and 3% were add cannabis. The current prevalence rates of Khat chewing were 3.8%.
Conclusion and Recommendation : Although the life time and current prevalence of khat chewing lower in our study compare to other studies conducted along with khat other substances such as cigarette smoking, alcohol drinking are being used. More over illicit substances including shisha and hashish are also being taken. So the students should be educated or gate awareness about the adverse effect of khat and other substances on physical, Mental and social health.