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| Burden of Non- Communicable Diseases Risk Factors in Libya and other Arabic Countries: Step Wise Survey Comparative Analysis
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Mohamed A. Alsla, Rabia AM Yahya, Azab Elsayed Azab
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Abstract:
: Background: Non- Communicable Diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and respiratory diseases, are a growing public health concern globally. The risk of NCDs is boost due to modifiable behaviours, such as tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet and the harmful use of alcohol. Metabolic risk factors in the form of raised blood pressure, obesity, high blood glucose levels, and high levels of lipids in the blood all are connected with increased risk of NCDs. Objectives: The current study aims to investigate the burden of NCDs risk factors in Libya and compare it with other Arabic countries using a step survey comparative analysis. Methodology: The study population was drawn from WHO STEP wise approach to Surveillance which is an Observational, cross-sectional community-based survey conducted in Libya in 2023 as well as in different other nine Arabic countries. Multistage cluster sampling strategies were used in all countries included in this analysis. The survey used demographic and behavioural information questionnaires as well as physical and biochemical measurements among adults aged 18 years and above. Results: A total of 49000 individuals aged 18-69 years participated in the step wise survey in Libya as well as other 9 Arabic countries. The survey conducted over the last 12 years in different 10 countries included in the analysis. Oman has the largest sample (N= 9053) and Lebanon (N=1899) has the smallest sample. Over all prevalence of current smoking among Libyan was 21.5%. 19% of Libyan currently smoke tobacco daily. In all Arabic countries, men were much likely than women to smoke. Alcohol consumption was observed in 0.7% of Libyans. Lebanon males had the highest prevalence of alcohol abuse (14.7%) among males also Lebanon females had the highest prevalence among women (4.4%). Prevalence of inadequate fruit and vegetable intake among Libyans were about 93% which is relatively higher than any other Arabic country. The overall prevalence of insufficient physical activity among Libyans was 45%. Algerian men had the lowest prevalence of physical inactivity (13.7%) whereas Moroccan women had the lowest prevalence among women (26%). Libyans spent around 25.7 minutes on average per day in physical activity (51min males vs. 11 min females). .Morocco had the highest prevalence of the median time spent on physical activity on average per day (137minutes by Morocco men and 90 minutes by Morocco women). The overall prevalence of overweight (body Mass index BMI> 25) in Libyans was 56.8%. Libyan women were tend to be overweigh compared to Libyan men (62% in women Vs to 51.9% in men ). Kuwait had the highest prevalence of overweight 77.2% while Morocco had the lowest prevalence 53%. In regard to obesity (BMI >30) , 29% of Libyans were obese and Kuwait had the highest overall prevalence of obesity (40%). The overall prevalence of raised blood pressure (SBP>140 and or DBP >90 mmHg not on medication) was 25.3% among Libyans . A higher was observed among Libyan men (26.6%) than women (24%). Among countries included in the analysis, the highest prevalence was among Algerian men (80.8%) and Algerian as well as Egyptian women( 63.2%). Overall occurrence of raised fasting blood glucose was 14.9% among Libyans. the prevalence was slightly higher among women (15%). Qatar found to have the highest occurrence of raised blood glucose (16.7%) while Jordan found to have the lowest occurrence of raised blood glucose (8.2%). Raised total cholesterol was found in 14.6% of Libyans with slightly higher in women (16.2%) . among different countries included in the analysis, Lebanon had the highest overall prevalence (65.4%) .Moreover, Lebanon men and women had the highest prevalence. Conclusion: NCDs pose a significant threat to human health and economic stability in Libya and across the Arab world. The rising prevalence of these diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory illness, and diabetes, is largely driven by modifiable risk factors like tobacco use, unhealthy diets, and physical inactivity. Despite the alarming statistics, effective interventions already exist. Implementing these strategies, with a focus on salt reduction, stricter tobacco control, and health promotion initiatives, requires strong political commitment and a multi-sectoral approach. Strengthening healthcare systems and establishing robust monitoring programs are crucial for tracking progress and ensuring accountability. By prioritizing NCD prevention and control, Arab nations, including Libya, can improve their citizens health and well-being while reducing the economic burden associated with these chronic illnesses. Taking decisive action now will pave the way for a healthier future for generations to come.
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