Khat/Miraa

Khat/Miraa

Effects

Long-term use can precipitate the following effects:

• Negative impact on liver function, permanent tooth darkening (of a greenish tinge), susceptibility to ulcers, and diminished sex drive.
• Those who abuse the drug generally cannot stay without it for more than 4–5 days, feeling tired and having difficulty concentrating.[15] Occasionally a psychosis can result, resembling a hypomanic state in presentation.

Statistics and Trends

Current use of miraa in Kenya is 3.9%; it also varies by region of residence and gender. Like tobacco products, use of miraa is largely a male dominated affair. In North Eastern region, 35.8% of the male respondents reported using miraa. This was closely followed by Coast at 12.8%. Miraa usage is marginal in Nyanza and Western Kenya. In Eastern region where the bulk of the miraa comes from, only 9.4% reported being current users of the drug. It is also interesting to note that North Eastern region (7.6%) has the highest proportion of female users of miraa.