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EFFECTS OF KHAT (CATHA EDULIS) CONSUMPTION ON REPRODUCTIVE FUNCTIONS: A REVIEW
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Objectives: To review research findings on the effects of khat (Catha edulis) chewing
on reproductive functions.
Data sources: Retrieval and critical review of relevant articles and abstracts cited in
international and local journals, literature searches on Medline and Medchem from 1961
to 2002.
Data synthesis: Analysis of published data and limited interviews of regular khat users
revealed that khat chewing lowers libido in humans and may also lead to sexual
impotence following long term use. In pregnant women, consumption of khat affects
growth of foetus by inhibiting utero-placental blood flow and as a consequence, impairs
foetal growth.
Conclusion: Detailed studies on the effects of khat on reproduction are lacking. However,
the limited available data reveal that chewing of khat has a negative impact on human
reproductive health. Khat is genotoxic and has teratogenic effects on the foetus if
regularly consumed by pregnant mothers. Since low birth weight is a well-established
risk factor for both perinatal and young infant death, khat chewing during pregnancy
may be one of the factors contributing to infant mortality in communities where khat
is commonly chewed. Khat consumption affects the potency of male sexuality by affecting
spermatogenesis and plasma testosterone concentration. However, the precise mechanisms
by which khat may affect the male reproductive physiology have not been elucidated.
Objectives: To review research findings on the effects of khat (Catha edulis) chewing
on reproductive functions.
Data sources: Retrieval and critical review of relevant articles and abstracts cited in
international and local journals, literature searches on Medline and Medchem from 1961
to 2002.
Data synthesis: Analysis of published data and limited interviews of regular khat users
revealed that khat chewing lowers libido in humans and may also lead to sexual
impotence following long term use. In pregnant women, consumption of khat affects
growth of foetus by inhibiting utero-placental blood flow and as a consequence, impairs
foetal growth.
Conclusion: Detailed studies on the effects of khat on reproduction are lacking. However,
the limited available data reveal that chewing of khat has a negative impact on human
reproductive health. Khat is genotoxic and has teratogenic effects on the foetus if
regularly consumed by pregnant mothers. Since low birth weight is a well-established
risk factor for both perinatal and young infant death, khat chewing during pregnancy
may be one of the factors contributing to infant mortality in communities where khat
is commonly chewed. Khat consumption affects the potency of male sexuality by affecting
spermatogenesis and plasma testosterone concentration. However, the precise mechanisms
by which khat may affect the male reproductive physiology have not been elucidated.
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