Geographical Analysis of Cancer and Non-Communicable Disease Prevalence Patterns and Health Risk Factors in Libya in 2025

Abstract

The study aims to analyze the spatial distribution of cancer types and the risk factors associated with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Libya, identify patterns in the prevalence of chronic diseases among the population, with particular emphasis on differences between males and females, and determine the most significant behavioral, physical, and biochemical factors affecting health status. The study also seeks to assess the level of health risks associated with cancer and cardiovascular diseases in order to support health planning and improve prevention and early detection programs.

The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach to examine health data and interpret variations among different population groups. The research relied on statistical data from the Libya STEPwise Survey of Non-Communicable Disease Risk Factors (2022–2023), in addition to tables presenting the distribution of cancer cases by type and sex. The analysis also included indicators related to tobacco use, dietary habits, physical activity, anthropometric and biochemical measurements, and cardiovascular disease risk.

The findings revealed that breast cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer among the overall population, while colorectal cancer is the most common among males, whereas breast cancer predominates among females. The results also showed a high prevalence of smoking among males, low levels of physical activity, inadequate consumption of fruits and vegetables, and high rates of overweight, obesity, and hypertension. Furthermore, a substantial proportion of the population was found to have multiple coexisting cardiovascular disease risk factors.

The study recommends strengthening early cancer detection programs, implementing more effective tobacco control measures, improving nutritional awareness, promoting physical activity, and enhancing chronic disease prevention programs. It also recommends establishing spatial health databases and conducting future studies to investigate the relationship between environmental and social factors and disease distribution, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of preventive health programs