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

Abstract

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.