Spatial Epidemiology of Cancer Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors in Southern Libya: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Cancer represents a growing public health challenge in Libya, particularly in Southern Libya, where epidemiological evidence remains limited. This study investigated the prevalence of cancer and the demographic, behavioral, environmental, healthcare, and awareness-related factors associated with cancer occurrence. Methods: A descriptive analytical retrospective epidemiological design was employed. Secondary data were obtained from the Sebha Oncology Center covering cancer cases registered between 2016 and 2022, while primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 55 cancer patients. Data were analyzed using SPSS through descriptive statistics and one-sample t-tests. Results: A total of 1,500 cancer cases were analyzed. Females accounted for 61.0% of patients, and individuals aged 40 years or older represented the majority of cases. Breast cancer was the most common malignancy (35.5%), followed by prostate cancer (12.1%), colorectal cancer (11.5%), and leukemia (10.9%). Sebha municipality contributed 52.2% of registered cases. Environmental and occupational exposures achieved the highest questionnaire mean (M = 3.91), followed by behavioral and lifestyle factors (M = 3.84). All questionnaire dimensions were significantly higher than the theoretical mean (p < 0.001), indicating that respondents perceived these factors as important contributors to cancer prevalence. Conclusions: Cancer prevalence in Southern Libya is influenced by multiple interacting demographic, behavioral, environmental, healthcare, and awareness-related factors. Strengthening cancer surveillance systems, expanding early detection programs, improving access to oncology services, and implementing comprehensive prevention strategies are essential for reducing the regional cancer burden.