Khat chewing and risky sexual behavior in Sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review protocol

Abstract

The objective of this review is to investigate the association between khat chewing and risky sexual behavior in Sub-Saharan Africa. Inclusion criteria Types of participants This review will consider studies that include young people aged between 10-24 years who practice khat chewing irrespective of their HIV status. Types of exposure(s) This review will consider studies that evaluate the association between khat chewing, which is the exposure of interest and risky sexual behavior. Types of outcomes The primary outcome of interest is risky sexual behavior. This review will consider studies that measure risky sexual behavior, which may be defined as early sexual debut, inconsistent use of condoms, unprotected sexual intercourse, having sex with commercial sex workers, or sex with multiple sexual partners. The secondary outcome of interest is HIV infection, other STIs or unwanted pregnancy.