General Oncology Care in Libya

Abstract

Libya is a large country, ranking at fourth in terms of area both in the Arab world and the African continent (https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/which-are-the-10-largest-countries-of-africa-by-size.html). It is part of the World Health Organization–Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (WHO–EMRO) region. Oil production is the main source of income which has transformed the country massively over the past 50 years and the healthcare system is one of the sectors that have improved significantly. The Health Act No (106), issued in 1973, guarantees free health services to all Libyans, with inevitable challenges regarding the delivery of adequate and sustainable services. The health system in Libya is a mix between the public sector and the private sector. The private sector is basically depending on funding through insurance companies and self-pay. It is not yet adequately developed but is striving and rapidly growing in the last two decades.The oncology services are accessible and available for all Libyans, most of the diagnostic and therapeutic facilities are of good standards and the modern treatments like immunotherapy and targeted therapies are also available. However, there were periods when the health care system—in general—was struggling to meet the increasing demand on health services and has seen considerable challenges, especially over the past few years due to the conflict, political, and economic instability of the country. This chapter covers the oncology care in Libya, describing the current state, challenges, and future directions.

Libyan cancer patients at King Hussein Cancer Center for more than a decade, the current situation, and a future vision

“…In absence of a well-established national Libyan cancer registry ( 12 ), the results of this study might lay the groundwork for the drafting and development of a cancer care strategy for the Libyan populace and their associated displaced populations. Both the literature and KHCC’s data demonstrated that breast and GIT cancers were among the most prevalent cancers affecting this vulnerable population ( 22 , 24 ). However, screening activities and their associated scale are extremely limited within Libya.…”

“…Screening programs should be complemented by simple cost-effective measures as to increase their effectiveness and reach within the population. Awareness campaigns for cervical cancer were already launched in many Libyan cities as of 2020 and adopted a digital format as of 2021 ( 24 ). Such campaigns must be sustained and extended to other prevalent cancers.…”

“…While the palliative care track does exist within the Libyan healthcare system, it faces a significant shortage across the entire country. Libya’s National Cancer Control Program is trying to address such an issue ( 24 ). Therefore, it is important to devise a referral strategy for palliative care patients that takes into account the emotional, psychological, and financial burdens associated with this vulnerable group.…”