Related Experiment Videos
Cancer in Libya--a retrospective study (1981-1985)
S S Akhtar1, M A Abu Bakr, S A Dawi
1Department of Oncology, Al-Fateh University, Tripoli, Libya.
African Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences
|March 1, 1993
Summary
Malignant lymphoma was the most common cancer in Libya between 1981-1985. Lung cancer predominated in males, while breast cancer was most frequent in females, with notable risk factors identified.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Cancer incidence data from Libya is scarce, particularly from the period 1981-1985.
- Understanding cancer patterns is crucial for public health planning and resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of histopathologically confirmed malignant diseases in Libya.
- To identify the most prevalent cancer types and their distribution by sex and age.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 1124 cancer patient records registered at Libya's sole oncology clinic from 1981 to 1985.
- Data collection included patient demographics, cancer type, and relevant risk factors.
Main Results:
- Malignant lymphoma (16%) was the most common cancer, with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma more prevalent than Hodgkin's disease.
- Lung cancer (22.4%) was the leading cancer in males, strongly associated with smoking. Breast cancer (29.8%) was most frequent in females, predominantly in those under 50.
- Colorectal cancer incidence was higher than in other African regions, while liver and bladder cancers were less frequent.
Conclusions:
- Libya exhibited distinct cancer patterns, including a high male-to-female ratio for lung cancer and a high incidence of colorectal cancer.
- The findings highlight the need for targeted cancer prevention and control strategies in Libya, addressing smoking cessation and early detection for breast and colorectal cancers.