Libyan Women Research Articles

Prevalence of Pregnancy Tumor in Tripoli, Libya: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study

Background and objectives. Pyogenic granuloma (pregnancy tumor) is one of the gingival inflammatory changes with an increased incidence during pregnancy. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and characteristics of pregnancy tumors in pregnant Libyan women in Tripoli, Libya. Methods. In this descriptive cross-sectional study, pregnant Libyan women were assessed at the National Heart Center-Tajoura, Jalaa Maternity Hospital, and Tripoli University Hospital during the period from August to November 2023. Data were collected through interviewing and clinical examination of the participants and filling out a data form. Results. During four months period, of 402 pregnant Libyan women, 4 (1.0%) were clinically diagnosed with pregnancy tumors. The four cases were in their third trimester of pregnancy. Half (50%) of pregnancy tumor cases were more than 30 years old, and the other half (50%) were early 20 years old. The gingiva was the only site of the lesions, and were observed equally in the maxilla and the mandible. All pregnancy tumor cases have calculus on their teeth, bleeding gums, and poor oral hygiene status. All lesions were sessile had lobulated surfaces, and showed spontaneous and provoked bleeding. Conclusions. Although the results of this study indicate that the prevalence of pregnancy tumors in pregnant Libyan women is considered low (1.0%), oral health education programs are very important during pregnancy, and if pregnant women notice any abnormal growth during pregnancy in their mouth, they should consult a dentist.

Analysis of BRCA1 germline variants (exons 5, 11 and 20) in breast cancer families from Libya

ABSTRACT Breast cancer (BC) is a leading cause of cancer deaths in Libyan women. BRCA1 variants differ globally due to the diversity of genetic makeup and populations history. Their distribution, prevalence, and significance in Libyans remain largely unexplored. This study investigated the characteristics and distribution of BRCA1 variants in exons 5, 11, and 20 in Libyan families with BC. Thirty-six BC patients at ≤ 45 years, between 46–50 years and with a family history of breast, ovarian, pancreatic or prostate cancer in close relatives, or with triple-negative BC, were selected from 33 unrelated families during 2018–2020 at the National Cancer Institute, Sabratha, Libya. From these 33 families, 20 women (18 BC patients and two unaffected) were screened for BRCA1 exons 5, 11 and 20 using Sanger sequencing. All families completed an epidemiology and family history questionnaire. Twenty-seven variants (26 in exon 11 and 1 in exon 20, minor allele frequency of < 0.01) were detected in 10 of 18 unrelated families (55.6%.) Among the 27 variants, 26 (96%) were heterozygous. A frameshift pathogenic variant, c.2643del, and one novel variant c.1366A>G were identified. Furthermore, seven variants with unknown clinical significance were detected: c.1158T>A, c.1346C>G, c.1174C>G, c.3630 G>T, c.3599A>T, and c.3400 G>C in exon 11, and c.5244T>A in exon 20. Six variants with conflicting pathogenicity interpretations, c. 3460T>A, c. 3572 G>A, c. 3700 G>C, c. 1246C>G, c. 1344C>G, and c. 1054 G>A, were also identified. Twelve benign/likely benign variants were identified. Rare BRCA1 variants that have not been reported in North Africa were found in Libyan patients. These findings provide preliminary insights into the BRCA1 variants that could contribute to hereditary BC risk in Libyans. Further functional, computational, and population analyses are essential to determine their significance and potential impact on BC risk, which could ultimately lead to more personalized management strategies.

A study on patients’ selection for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations testing by different models in Libyan women with breast cancer

ABSTRACT Introduction The BRCA mutation spectrum of familial breast cancer in Libya remains unknown. Several genetic models developed to predict the probability of BRCA1/2 mutations have not been applied in Libya, where the NCCN criteria are used for highly penetrating breast cancer susceptibility genes. We aimed to predict BRCA1/2 mutation probability in familial breast cancer and genetic testing eligibility using BOADICEA and BRCAPRO models and NCCN criteria. Methods BRCA1/2 mutations were retrospectively predicted in 62 women with familial breast cancer between 2018 and 2021. Logistic regression, ROC analysis, and area under the curve were used to compare NCCN referral criteria with the BRCAPRO and BOADICEA scores. Results Thirty-two out of 62 breast cancer patients (51.6%), with a mean age of 43.5 ± 8 years, were predicted as BRCA mutation carriers by both models. BRCAPRO predicted BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations in 27.4% and 41.9% of the women, respectively. BOADICEA predicted 8% for BRCA1 and 29% for BRCA2. At least one NCCN criterion was met by 50/62 women (80.6%). Three criteria were statistically significant predictors in BRCAPRO and BOADICEA: breast cancer at age ≤50 years with one or more close blood relatives with breast cancer, breast cancer patient with a close relative of male breast cancer, and triple-negative breast cancer. For the three respective criteria, sensitivity was 0.78, 0.89, and 0.75, specificity was 0.33, 0.39, and 0.22, area under curve was 0.72, 0.75, and 0.76, positive predictive value was 55%, 61%, and 51%, and negative predictive value was 58.5%, 77%, and 45%. Conclusions Our study highlights that certain aspects of the NCCN criteria demonstrate variations in significance when compared to the BRCAPR and BOADICEA models. For the first time, these models were used to predict BRCA mutations in Libyan women, and our finding indicates that these models are promising for improving genetic testing decision-making.

‘This is the fate of Libyan women:’ contempt, ridicule, and indifference of Seham Sergiwa

ABSTRACT As the debate on how harmful online content translates into violent offline actions continues in the Global North, this debate should be enriched by data from the Global South. In Libya, the kidnapping of a female politician (Seham Sergiwa) in 2019 was arguably foreshadowed on social media, with some analysts warning of an imminent danger to her life when tracking social media discourse in June/July 2019. Following her abduction, the outcry was loud and reverberated outside of Libya. However, this was short lived and similar occurrences happen in Libya still. This paper contributes a systematic analysis of Facebook content in the months leading up to and after Sergiwa’s disappearance. Using thematic content analysis to explore 259 posts and 4,367 comments – between January and December 2019 – this paper outlines three dominant themes: Contempt, ridicule and indifference. This study presents a refocus on the dangers of online speech while acknowledging complexities around categorising the former. The study adds nuanced understandings on online discussions in Libya and gendered dynamics in a violent, post-revolutionary environment.

Prevalence and Dietary Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome among Libyan Women Attending in Infertility Center Tripoli, Libya

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common heterogenic endocrine illness in women of reproductive age, caused mostly by an excess of androgen and ovarian dysfunction. The present study was carried out to estimate the prevalence of PCOS among Libyan women who attended infertility center Tripoli, Libya, from 2020-2022, evaluate hormonal profile, Body Mass Index, weight and west circumferential before and after treatment and diet management. A longitudinal cross-sectional study conducted in the Tripoli Fertility Center in Tripoli, Libya, the study population targeting output Libyan female patients who presented to the gynecology and obstetrics (OPD) department and therapeutic nutrition department. Data Retrospectively collected from 2020 until 2022 and diagnosed using Rotterdam’s criteria. A total of 603 patients visited the gynecology and obstetrics department and the therapeutic nutrition department between January 2020 and December 2022. Out of which 174 women in the PCOS group and 429 in the non-PCOS group. The prevalence of PCOS was 29.56% in 2020, 37.5% in 2021, and 20.27% in 2022. The mean age of PCOS was 34.90 ± 5.5 SD, and all of the PCOS group were married. Worth to mention that all of PCOS cases was insulin resistance type. In terms of weight in the PCOS group, 19.54% were obese BMI &gt;29, 68.96% were morbid obese with BMI &gt;35, and approximately 68.39% of waist circumference measurements were more than 88cm. Hirsutism and oligomenorrhea were the major clinical features, morbid obese seems to be more prevalent in Libyan PCOS patients, low carbohydrate diet and physical activities may play an important role in PCOS management.

Association of ABO/Rh Blood Group with Hypertension in Pre and Postmenopausal Libyan women

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Hypertension is a prevalent and significant public health issue worldwide, affecting a substantial portion of the population. While various risk factors have been implicated in the development of hypertension, including genetics, lifestyle, and hormonal changes, the role of ABO/Rh blood groups in hypertension remains underexplored, particularly in different stages of Libyan women’s life. This research study aimed to investigate the potential association between ABO/Rh blood groups and hypertension in both pre- and post-menopausal Libyan women. METHODOLOGY: A cross sectional study was conducted over a four-month period on a diverse cohort of women aged 35 to 75 years. It involved a total of 200 hypertensive women divided into pre- (n=100) and post-menopausal (n=100) groups. It took place at Tripoli University Hospital, Tajoura Heart Centre and Total Care Clinic. Data were collected through structured interviews, clinical examinations, and blood sample analyses. Blood pressure (BP) measurements and blood group typing were performed using standard medical procedures. A statistical analysis was performed using SPSS program version 26.0. RESULTS: The distribution of ABO blood groups shows that blood group O is the most prevalent blood group among samples (58% in the pre-menopausal and 41% in post-menopausal hypertensives), whereas blood group AB is the least prevalent (only 9% in the pre-menopausal and 7% in post-menopausal hypertensives). One hundred and eighty-one (90.5%) were Rh +ve. Analysis of data revealed significant differences in age distribution as well as in the percentages of Rh +ve and Rh -ve blood groups among pre- and post-menopausal women (p&lt;0.05). However, there was no statistically significant difference in the mean values of BP indices between ABO/Rh blood groups (p&gt;0.05).CONCLUSION: This study showed that ABO/Rh blood group system does not significantly affect BP indices among the pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women. Findings of present study also illustrated that age could potentially influence the connection between blood groups and hypertension. Additionally, among ABO/Rh blood groups, the most observed type was 'O.' However, further investigation is necessary to validate these initial results and better understand the underlying mechanisms behind this relationship

Libyan Women's Knowledge and Practices of Fish Safety

Fish and fish products are important sources of essential nutrients for the body, and nutritionists recommend eating seafood twice a week. Therefore, to achieve the benefits of fish and fish products, the safety of fish should be considered from catching to the consumer table. The study evaluated fish safety knowledge and practices in a random sample of 344 women in Tripoli City, Libya. The survey was carried out by the self-administered questionnaire prepared for this purpose. The questionnaire consisted of four parts; the first part: questions about fish safety knowledge; the second part: questions about fish safety practices during purchasing; the third part: questions about fish safety practices at home; the fourth part: personal information. The mean knowledge score was 10.97±2.49 out of a total score of 15, the mean score of practices during purchasing was 23.2±4.10 out of a total score of 32, and the mean score of practices at home was 55.8± 6.32 out of a total score of 88. Age, marital status, employment and educational level had no significant effect on knowledge and practices (P&gt;0.05). The study concluded that effective programs should be adopted to educate women to raise their awareness level of fish safety.

The role of Libyan women in social and political changes and the obstacles they face within society

This research aims, through the analytical and historical descriptive approach, to highlight the historical role that Libyan women played in creating social and political change, and to try to understand all the obstacles and challenges they face towards building peace in the current conditions of society. The history of the Libyan woman is that she was fighting and fighting for freed And change, and she faced many difficulties and obstacles, but she still resisted and challenged in order to highlight herself and impose her presence, and Al-Bahtan recommended some recommendations, including: educating women about themselves and their effective role within society in making change, and educating them to raise their status in the social and political aspect, and encouraging Libyan women To participate in dialogues, conferences and meetings, whether local, regional or international, to highlight its position among countries.

The nationality of the cheldren of the Libyan mother Comparative study between sharia and law

The issue of not granting citizenship to the children of Libyan women married to foreigners has become one of the most important problems that haunt Libyan women, for which they have struggled for years, and demanded the amendment of laws with the aim of redressing them. This study concluded with a set of results and recommendations. Among these results is that the position of the Libyan legislator represents a strict trend with regard to the issue under study, as modern legislation has always sought complete equality between men and women with regard to the nationality of their children. The study also hopes from the Libyan legislator to take the arguments in favor of the issue of equality and the extent of suffering facing a Libyan mother married to a foreigner and her children, and to amend the current legislation in line with the position of modern legislation on this issue.

Knowledge, attitude and practice of Libyan females attending primary health care centers regarding breast cancer in Benghazi / 2017

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. The occurrence of breast cancer in the female Libyan population is strongly associated with young age with nearly 70.9% of cases arising in female individuals who are 50 years or younger. In 2004 breast cancer in Libya was the most common malignancy in females as recorded by Benghazi Cancer Registry. Aim: To determine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of Libyan females attending primary health care centers in Benghazi regarding breast cancer. Methodology: A cross – sectional descriptive study, total of 500 women attending health care centers in Benghazi. Result: Nearly all participants 499 (99.8%) had heard about breast cancer, 295(59%) of participants had never heard about breast self-examination (BSE), the majority of them had not practiced BSE 344 (68.8%), 137 (27.4%) underwent screening by CBE, most of them 442 (88.4%) had not performed mammogram examination. Conclusion: The result revealed that the Libyan women attending the selected health care institutions had a good knowledge level about basic information regarding breast cancer, its signs, symptoms and its risk factors. It revealed they had poor knowledge for BSE, CBE and mammography, and had positive attitudes but poor practice.

ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT OF WOMEN IN THE LABOUR MARKET

This study aims to identify the most important characteristics and variables affect the participation of Libyan women in the labour market, Misurata city as a model, by following the descriptive analytical approach relied on data collection, through the field study was conducted on the study community represented in the Libyan women workforce within the geographical scope of the city of Misurata, and by relying on the binary logistic regression technique in analyzing the study data. A questionnaire method was used, which was circulated to the study population in a cluster random sampling method. The study concluded that high educational level of women, will increase their empowered in the labour market. Also, urban women have a greater rate of obtaining a job than rural women, and the social view of women's work from the family and society as a whole

Awareness and Knowledge of Libyan Women about Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a long-lasting state in which endometrial-like tissue is found outside the uterus often on the reproductive organs, bowel, and bladder. Aimed to: To find out the extent to which Libyan women know about endometriosis. Martial &amp; Methods: During the one-year study period [2021 to 2022], answer the questions of questionnaire and interview. Result: Most of the ages were between (16 - 25 Years) 1353(73.5 %), most Education Levels (University) 1357(73.8 %), and Marital Situation the most were (Single) 1467(79.7 %). frequency and percent of Knowledge Questions Most of the answers were “I don’t know” and the answer was “No.” This indicates a lack of information about endometriosis, who suffer from endometrioses were the highest percent 75.5 %, I Don`t know 21.2 %. Percent of education the answer I don`t know 19.4 %, and by no 26.1 %. The Correlations between Knowledge and Education Levels, the p-value &gt; 0.05 means there is no relationship between education level and knowledge of endometriosis. Conclusion: that the educational level has nothing to do with the extent of awareness among women about endometriosis, and therefore we find that the percentage of those suffering from endometriosis is very high, and that women need a lot of awareness and knowledge about the endometriosis disease.

The role of Libyan women's associations in consolidating citizenship 1951-1969

Women's associations appeared in Libya with the first beginnings of the establishment of the United Kingdom of Libya in the 1950s of the twentieth century. They were associated with voluntary charitable deeds based on the principles of the Islamic religion. They focused on building cultural skills and abilities for Libyan females, helping them to learn, think, and fight illiteracy and poverty through enrolling young women in illiteracy programs, in addition to national awareness programs in radio, press, symposiums and charity fairs they used to organize, especially in raising awareness of the Libyan national identity after colonial attempts to eliminate it, as well as supporting women who wish to establish small development projects to raise the level of income of the Libyan family and eliminate poverty and destitution in society. Despite the difficulties faced by the associations at that stage and some opinions opposing the education and work of women, they contributed to the consolidation of the values of citizenship and its political, economic, social and cultural dimensions.

Determination of Heavy Metals in Henna Leaves and Cosmetic Henna Products Available in Zliten, Libya

Henna is widely used by Libyan women as a cosmetic, which may contain lead (pb), cadmium (Cd) and other toxic heavy metals. The purpose of this study was to determine heavy metal content of seven henna products, imported and locally produced in Zliten, Libya. An analytical method was performed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). In terms of heavy metal content determination, the results revealed a significant difference between henna leaves and cosmetic henna samples. The premixed henna sample H2 had the highest heavy metal concentrations with a high level of lead (6.952ppm), exceeding the WHO's maximum limit and the (ASEAN) Guidelines on Limits of Contaminants for Cosmetics Heavy metal maximum limits, Lead (Pb) is 1 ppm. Nickel (Ni) levels in (H4=5.201ppm) and (H6=2.023ppm ) henna samples were found to be above the WHO's limit of 1.68ppm. The results indicated that such cosmetics expose consumers to high levels of Pb and Cu, and hence to potential health risks. Thus, investigating the sources and effects of heavy metals in such cosmetics is strongly advised.

Evaluation of Knowledge among Libyan Women in western region about Breast Cancer and its Risk Factors

Background: Breast cancer in women is a major health problem for women in both developed and developing countries. It is the world's second greatest cause of death in women worldwide. Recently, the global cancer statistics indicated that breast cancer incidence is rising faster among women in developing countries. Aim: The goal of this study was to determine how women's awareness of breast cancer and its risk factors influenced the prevalence of breast cancer and its risk factors among Libyan women living in the western area. Methods: This study was designed as a descriptive cross‑sectional survey. A self‑administered questionnaire was used to collect the information from the female lady. Results: The 110 women who participated in the study had an average age of 50.9 (SD 12.10; age range: 2- ≥85) years. The majority of participants (71%) were under the age of 60, with (70.5%) being unmarried, (30.5%) being Illiterate, (27.4%) having a university degree, The women surveyed had a reasonable understanding of breast cancer risk factors; (71%) of those surveyed aware that increasing age was linked to a higher risk of breast cancer, and (82%) of surveyed polled knew that late menopause is a risk factor for breast cancer. However, there was no significant association different between knowledge and demographic factors. Conclusion: The study results showed insufficient knowledge of breast cancer among women whereas. Therefore, more educational programs could be designed to provide comprehensive information of breast cancer and breast self‑examination to improve women’s knowledge, which can help in the early detection of breast cancer for the better treatment

OVERALL OBESITY AND OVERWEIGHT, TREND FROM 2016 TO 2022 WITH A FORECAST FOR 3 YEARS AHEAD IN EASTERN LIBYA

The article investigate the prevalence of obesity among Libyan's women aged from 15 to 59 age years. The study estimated trends between 2016 and 2022 in overweight and obesity prevalence A total of 1288 women were included in the analysis, of which 662 (51.4%) were aged 15-30 years old and 626 (48.6%) were aged 31-59 years old recruited from 2016 to 2022. The sample was divided into two groups , group 1- female age from 15-30 years and group 2- female age 31-59 years. Between 2016 and 2022, the prevalence of obesity increased 10.4%, whereas there were increases forecast up to 2025 increased 10.3%. The study shown that body weight, body fat, waist circumference, visceral fat, and body mass index increase with aging except of fat free mass, decreased with aging. Women with higher age have higher chances of being obesity and lower chances of being underweight compared with lower age. The results from our study showed that the prevalence of obesity continues to rise, with age increased, with 10.3% increases occurring in the forecast next three year's 2023-2025. The results showed that the risk of gaining overweight and obesity starts at the age of 31 years.

Investigating the Association between Unhealthy Dietary Habits and Obesity among Libyan Adults.

Background: Although an increasing number of studies have reported on nutrition transition and unhealthy eating habits (UEHs) worldwide, there is a paucity of studies on UEHs in the Arab region, particularly in Libya. Aim: This study investigated the associations between obesity among Libyan adults and UEHs. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the five major districts in Benghazi, Libya. A multistage cluster sampling strategy was implemented to choose and recruit Libyan adults. Anthropometric measurements were gathered by highly qualified nurses, using the Segmental Body Composition Monitor and a portable Stadiometer. The study used and adapted the two Self-administered questionnaires: the WHO STEPS Instrument and eating behaviors linked with obesity questionnaire. Results: Among a total of 401 participants who were successfully recruited in this study, 253 (63%) were female (aged 20–65 years), the response rate achieved was 78%. The prevalence of obesity amongst Libyan adults was estimated to be 42.4%. The results revealed the presence of a significant association between obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) and five UEHs for Libyan men and six UEHs for Libyan women. For Libyan men, an association was found between obesity and the following five explanatory factors: fast food intake in a day and a week, which were (OR: 2.52, 95% CI: 4.04–12.32) and (OR: 4.65, 95% CI: 1.04–9.46), respectively; large food portion sizes consumed at one sitting (OR: 19.54, 95% CI: 1.41–27.74); a high frequency of skipping breakfast either in a typical day or a week, which were (OR: 0.02, 95% CI: 0.01–0.77) and (OR: 0.03, 95% CI: 0.01–0.24), respectively. For Libyan women, a significant association was found between obesity and the following six explanatory factors: fast food intake in a day and a week, which were (OR: 2.14, 95% CI: 3.32–11.12) and (OR: 5.5, 95% CI: 1.88–16.11), respectively; intake of sugar-sweetened beverages in a typical week (OR: 4.02, 95% CI: 1.35–11.99); and large food portion sizes consumed at one sitting at one sitting (OR: 3.40, 95% CI: 1.18–9.84); and a high frequency of skipping breakfast either in a typical day or a week, which were (OR: 0.11, 95% CI: 0.03–0.43) and (OR: 0.12, 95% CI: 0.08–0.63), respectively. Conclusions: The findings of the study reveal areas of action for Libyan researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and government officials about UEHs in the Libyan context. This could inform establishing and developing new interventions for preventing and controlling the obesity epidemic through food system improvements.

Assessment of the Haematological Alterations in Cervical Cancer Patients Attending Sabratha

Background: Cervix cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide, and is the third most common malignant disease in women. It is one of the main health problems in Libyan women. Blood act as a pathological reflector of the status of exposed patient to infections and other conditions. Laboratory tests on the blood are vital tools that help detect any deviation from normal in the human body As the disease progresses, changes appear in haematological parameters which have been of relevant consideration in context of cancer patients. Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate the alterations in haematological parameters among cervical cancer patients in Sabratha National Cancer Institute. Subjects and Methods: The present study was conducted on 150 cervical cancer patients, attending the National Cancer Institute of Sabratha from the 11th February, 2006 to the 3rd February, 2020. This study was approved by the Research and Ethical Committee of Sabratha University and Sabratha National Cancer Institute. Age was extracted from patient files. Also, 60 healthy individuals without any chronic disease were recruited for the control group. Blood samples were collected by vein puncture, 3 ml of venous blood withdrawn from each participant in the study by using disposable syringes under aseptic technique; they then transferred to a sterile EDTA tube, for complete blood count. The statistical significance of differences between groups was evaluated with the Mann Whitney U test. Results: The results showed that the mean age of the cervix cancer patients was 53.37±11.6 years.RBCs count, hemoglobin concentration, Hct value, MCH, MCHC, and lymphocytes % were significantly (P&lt;0.01) decreased compared with the healthy individuals. On the other hand, leukocytes and platelets count, mixed %, neutrophils %, PLTs/Lymph, and Neutrophils/Lymphocytes ratios were significantly increased as compared with the healthy individuals. Conclusion: It can be concluded that a significant increase in leukocytes and platelets count, mixed %, neutrophils %, and the studied inflammation related haematological parameters and a significant decreased in lymphocytes %, RBCs count and most its indices. Further haematological studies are needed to confirm these results. Also, there is need to routinely monitor the haematological parameters and among cervical cancer patients.

HIV prevention - Challenges in reaching Libyan women: A narrative review.

Introduction:The need to effectively communicate HIV/AIDS prevention messages in Libya, where HIV prevalence is relatively low yet increasing, cannot be overstressed. A review of the literature on HIV prevalence, risk factors, stigma and awareness found that there is a lack of HIV research, information and support in the country. This is particularly true regarding women, who account for 25%–30% of people living with HIV in Libya.Aim:Drawing on the various literature, this narrative review will (1) present a historical trajectory of Libyan women and their role in society and (2) identify some challenges that HIV prevention programmes face in reaching Libyan women.Methods:Medline, PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Scopus and Cochrane Library were searched for English and Arabic language articles. Primary research studies and official reports indicating a discussion or research on HIV in Libya and Libyan women were considered. Reference lists of articles were reviewed to identify additional studies. Thirty-seven articles dating from 1987 to 2021 were selected and critically appraised.Results:There is a lack of sufficient information within the existing literature, but the gathered literature did reveal some significant insights. Factors such as limited sexual health education, inadequate medical services, social and cultural restrictions and stigma, as well as limited agency, were identified as potential barriers to women accessing crucial information on HIV.Conclusion:The article found that the HIV prevention efforts that have been carried out in Libya may be compromised as they were not designed to recognize and adhere to sociocultural norms that impact on Libyan women’s scope for choice and agency. By understanding the interplay between gender, social and structural factors in Libya, a model of better adjusted prevention and early intervention activities could be developed; a toolkit that conceptualizes the culture and that appreciates the role of a Libyan woman is changing.

Assessment of the haematological alterations in cervical cancer patients attending sabratha national cancer institute, Western Libya

Background: Cervix cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide, and is the third most common malignant disease in women. It is one of the main health problems in Libyan women. Blood act as a pathological reflector of the status of exposed patient to infections and other conditions. Laboratory tests on the blood are vital tools that help detect any deviation from normal in the human body As the disease progresses, changes appear in haematological parameters which have been of relevant consideration in context of cancer patients. Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate the alterations in haematological parameters among cervical cancer patients in Sabratha National Cancer Institute. Subjects and methods: The present study was conducted on 150 cervical cancer patients, attending the National Cancer Institute of Sabratha from the 11th February, 2006 to the 3rd February, 2020. This study was approved by the Research and Ethical Committee of Sabratha University and Sabratha National Cancer Institute. Age was extracted from patient files. Also, 60 healthy individuals without any chronic disease were recruited for the control group. Blood samples were collected by vein puncture, 3 ml of venous blood withdrawn from each participant in the study by using disposable syringes under aseptic technique; they then transferred to a sterile EDTA tube, for complete blood count. The statistical significance of differences between groups was evaluated with the Mann Whitney U test. Results: The results showed that the mean age of the cervix cancer patients was 53.37±11.6 years. RBCs count, hemoglobin concentration, Hct value, MCH, MCHC, and lymphocytes % were significantly (P&lt;0.01) decreased compared with the healthy individuals. On the other hand, leukocytes and platelets count, mixed %, neutrophils %, PLTs/Lymph, and Neutrophils/Lymphocytes ratios were significantly increased as compared with the healthy individuals. Conclusion: It can be concluded that a significant increase in leukocytes and platelets count, mixed %, neutrophils %, and the studied inflammation related haematological parameters and a significant decreased in lymphocytes %, RBCs count and most its indices. Further haematological studies are needed to confirm these results. Also, there is need to routinely monitor the haematological parameters and among cervical cancer patients.