The social impact of cancer on the family: A field study at the Sirte Oncology Center

Abstract

Cancer in Libya is a major health challenge, with reports indicating more than 20,000 cancer patients registered with the National Cancer Control Authority's "Muharib" system, and the number of cases steadily increasing. Patients face significant difficulties due to shortages of essential medications and limited financial resources, forcing many to travel long distances to receive treatment. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the social impacts of cancer on families in contemporary Libyan society. The researcher employed a descriptive methodology and used a social survey with a sample of 200 family members of patients attending the Sirte Cancer Treatment Center between October 2025 and February 2026. These individuals were selected purposively, and data was collected using a questionnaire designed by the researcher to measure the social impacts of cancer on Libyan families. The questionnaire underwent peer review and validation for reliability and validity. Among the most important findings: The results showed that cancer affects internal family relationships, social positions, power centers, and family roles. The results also indicated that there are some family problems that accompany cancer, including problems related to role conflicts resulting from the family's preoccupation with treating the patient, behavioral and psychological problems suffered by some family members, and problems related to relatives and the social environment surrounding the family. The results also revealed the impact of cancer on the family's economic situation and the effect of the negative social view of the disease on aspects of family life.