The chewing of qat (khat), a plant native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, is a widely practiced socio-cultural habit. Excessive, prolonged use can lead to gum disease, tooth discoloration, and white lesions. The objectives of this cross-sectional pilot study were to determine awareness of oral health effects of qat and measure the oral health of a sample of Yemeni immigrants in Hamtramck, Michigan.
Methods:
IRB approval was obtained (UDM 0910-47). Subjects were recruited in a private dental practice. Following informed consent, subjects completed an 11-item questionnaire regarding demographics, qat use and knowledge of health effects. A dental examination was conducted and DMFT, CPITN and PCR scores were recorded.
Results:
Eleven subjects between the ages of 30 and 69 were recruited; 10 males and 1 female. All but one reported soda/sweet tea consumption. Eight subjects (72.7%) reported knowledge that qat-chewing can damage the mouth or teeth. Eight subjects identified as qat-users (Q) and 3 were non-users (Non). Of users, only 3 reported use greater than once/week and 5 reported no use in the past 2 years. PCR values for users were 60.63% compared to 54.04% for non-users. DMFT scores were 18.25 for users and 14.00 for non-users. CPITN: Q (12.5% had gingival bleeding, 25% had calculus, 50% pockets 4-5mm, 12.5% pockets ≥6mm), Non (33.3% bleeding, 33.3% calculus, 33.3% pockets 4-5mm).
Conclusions:
Qat-users tended to be aware of adverse health effects. There was no difference in DMFT, CPITN and PCR scores between users and non-users. Political unrest in the Arab world may have heightened concerns about admitting use of an illegal substance and led to difficulty recruiting subjects. While the sample size of this pilot study is small, results may help stimulate further studies and increase awareness about the use of qat and possible oral health effects among health professionals.