Association between qat chewing and dyslipidaemia among young males

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study investigated the association between qat chewing and prevalence and patterns of dyslipidaemia among young Yemeni males.MethodsIn 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).ResultsA 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).ConclusionThis 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.

<p>Metabolic Syndrome Among Working Adults in Eastern Ethiopia</p>

“…48,49 Moreover, evidence shows in Yemen khat chewing was positively associated with the level of dyslipidemia compared to non-chewers. 50 The findings related to sedentary behavior are also consistent with previous studies in working adults. 51,52 Sedentary behavior prompts lower energy expenditure and increases insulin resistance.…”

“…44 This is because alcohol consumption tends to increase triglyceride levels and subsequently increases low HDL cholesterol level and abdominal obesity, 47 and alcohol is also known to cause insulin resistance. 50 The findings related to khat consumption are consistent with studies in countries where khat consumption is common; Khat chewers' had an increased risk of developing MetS than those who did not chew. 48,49 Moreover, evidence shows in Yemen khat chewing was positively associated with the level of dyslipidemia compared to non-chewers.…”

“… 44 This is because alcohol consumption tends to increase triglyceride levels and subsequently increases low HDL cholesterol level and abdominal obesity, 47 and alcohol is also known to cause insulin resistance. 50 …”

“… 48 , 49 Moreover, evidence shows in Yemen khat chewing was positively associated with the level of dyslipidemia compared to non-chewers. 50 …”

Arabic Sentiment Analysis on Chewing Khat Leaves using Machine Learning and Ensemble Methods

“…Some studies focused on education [15,16], while other researches focused on detecting health misinformation on social media users [18,19]. Khat is a type of plant that pleases and stimulates, and chewing Khat leaves is a commonly seen habit in Yemen and East Africa [21][22][23]. Although it is customary in these countries, several experiments showed its direct impact on human organs.…”