@article{102872,
  keywords = {Epidemiological patterns, seasonal trends, socio-environmental factors, Community engagement, Vector control},
  author = {Mansour O and Diab AA and Muftah M and Md Noor N and Das SK},
  title = {Prevalence and socioeconomic patterns of leishmaniasis in Libya: a retrospective analysis of health center data},
  abstract = {<p>Leishmaniasis remains a significant public health concern in tropical and subtropical regions, yet limited epidemiological data hinder effective control measures. This study examines the prevalence, spatial distribution, and seasonal trends of leishmaniasis in Baniwalid, Libya, through a retrospective analysis of confirmed cases from Al-Zamla and Downtown Health Centers over ten months (September – July). Quadratic regression models were used to forecast trends and assess the reliability of predictive models. Findings reveal a peak incidence in winter (October – December) (R<sup>2</sup> = 0.88), with Downtown Health Center reporting the highest burden (601 cases), suggesting urban transmission hotspots. Children (41% of cases) were particularly vulnerable due to environmental exposure and limited healthcare access. High correlation values in densely populated areas emphasize the role of urbanization and sanitation in disease spread. These findings underscore the need for targeted vector control and public health interventions. Future studies should explore community-driven prevention strategies to mitigate disease transmission.</p>
},
  year = {2025},
  journal = {African Geographical Review},
  pages = {1-16},
  publisher = {Informa UK Limited},
  issn = {1937-6812, 2163-2642},
  url = {https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/epdf/10.1080/19376812.2025.2566517?needAccess=true},
  doi = {10.1080/19376812.2025.2566517},
  language = {ENG},
}