Background: About 10 million people worldwide chew khat daily.Chronic khat use is a public health problem associated with physical, psychological impacts such as mental health disorders, and social consequences.The khat use is increasing dramatically in Ethiopia among the young population.Analysis: There are controversies over the legal status and health effects related to the consumption of khat.Despite the existing controversies, the problem is increasing with its detrimental impact.Policy Implications: Policymakers need enforce education campaigns aimed with awareness creation on the impact of khat use.It is important to consider legally restricting the availability and khat use in vulnerable populations like children under 18, individuals with mental disorders, pregnant women, and settings such as hospitals and schools.
Tessema et al. (Mon,) studied this question.