Screening of alpha-fetoprotein, C-reactive protein and gamma-glutamyl transferase among Khat chewers

Purpose: To evaluate the possible effects of Khat and its active ingredient, cathine, on the hepatic production of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), C-reactive protein (CRP) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels among khat chewers. Methods: The study is a descriptive study among khat chewers in Sana'a, Yemen. The serum levels of AFP, GGT and CRP were evaluated in 70 chronic khat chewers comprising 57 males (81 %) and 13 females (19 %). Serum CRP levels were determined using a commercial latex-enhanced turbidimetric immunological assay kit. On the other hand, serum AFP concentrations were quantified using ELISA kits, while serum γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT) was determined using the Roche Cobas c501 analytical system. Results: Three of the 70 participants in the study had elevated AFP levels, with an overall prevalence of 4 %, while GGT was elevated in 13 (19 %) of the participants. In contrast, CRP levels were normal in all participants. However, cathine had no significant effects on serum levels of AFP, GGT and CRP in long-time chewers of khat. Conclusion: These data demonstrate that cathine has no significant effect on several liver-derived proteins such as AFP, GGT and CRP, in those who chew khat for a long time.