Scandinavian Journal of Public Health, 2011; 39: 212–219 ORIGINAL ARTICLE Perceptions of the use of khat among Somali immigrants living in Swedish society

Aims: The aim of this study was to gain a better understanding of Somali immigrants ’ perceptions of the use of khat when living in Swedish society. Using khat is illegal in Sweden. Methods: A phenomenographic design was used to capture different perception of using khat. Fourteen interviews were conducted with both men and women. The information was subjected to phenomenographic analysis. Results: Perceptions of the habit of chewing khat among Somalis living in Sweden vary. The use of khat is perceived as a kind of food or as a drug. To use khat is perceived as having a physical impact on individual health, as well as an impact on social and family life. Using khat also has an impact on people’s time, because time is needed to indulge the habit. Furthermore, using khat is perceived as a medium for cultural and community cohesiveness. The Somalis preferred preventive measures in place to counter the use of khat in Sweden. Conclusions:The use of a phenomenographic design which captured the variation in perceptions of the habit of using khat among Somali immigrants ’ living in Swedish society is helpful in guiding individual strategies in health promotion activities