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) (R2 = 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.
BT - African Geographical Review DO - 10.1080/19376812.2025.2566517 LA - ENG M3 - Article N2 -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) (R2 = 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.
PB - Informa UK Limited PY - 2025 SP - 1 EP - 16 T2 - African Geographical Review TI - Prevalence and socioeconomic patterns of leishmaniasis in Libya: a retrospective analysis of health center data UR - https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/epdf/10.1080/19376812.2025.2566517?needAccess=true SN - 1937-6812, 2163-2642 ER -