A descriptive study of kava use among Tongan men in Macarthur, Sydney South West.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the pattern of kava use among Tongan men in Macarthur.

METHODS

A kava use survey of Tongan men was conducted between May and October 2006.

RESULTS

Seventy-three Tongan men aged over 18 completed the survey, 90% drank kava regularly at least twice a week with 20 or more cups per session. During the kava sessions the men also reported smoking (26%), drinking alcohol (15%) and consuming foods with high fat or sugar content (29%). Feelings of euphoria were reported during session with alcohol-like hang-over effects the next day. Socialisation was the main reason given for drinking kava.

CONCLUSIONS

Kava is consumed regularly and in large quantities by Tongan men in Macarthur. They also consume fatty or sugary foods during the sessions and the smoking rate is high.

IMPLICATIONS

There is a need to reduce smoking and promote the consumption of healthier foods during kava sessions.