Hepatobiliary Cancers in Saudi Arabia From 2000 to 2025

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatobiliary cancers pose a significant global health burden.
• Saudi Arabia and neighboring Gulf nations face considerable impacts from these diseases.
• Limited data exists on hepatobiliary cancers specifically within Saudi Arabia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the epidemiology of hepatobiliary cancers in Saudi Arabia.
• To identify and clarify associated risk factors for these cancers in the region.
• To address the scarcity of comprehensive studies on hepatocellular cancers in Saudi Arabia.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a systematic electronic search of multiple databases (Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Knowledge, Google Scholar).
• Utilized keywords related to hepatobiliary cancer and Saudi Arabia.
• Included studies meeting specific inclusion criteria to gather epidemiological data.

Main Results:

• Hepatobiliary cancers, especially liver cancer, show significant prevalence in Saudi Arabia.
• Identified common risk factors such as viral hepatitis, smoking, alcohol consumption, diabetes mellitus, and obesity.
• Highlighted a lack of previous studies collectively examining hepatocellular cancers in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusions:

• Hepatobiliary cancers represent a notable public health concern in Saudi Arabia.
• Established risk factors for these cancers are consistent with global trends.
• Further research is warranted to comprehensively understand and combat hepatobiliary cancers in the region.