Abstract 

Background; Cancer is a major public health issue that affects people all over the world and
regarded as one of the main causes of death.
Aims; the study aims to evaluate Libyans' knowledge about cancer etiology, risk factors, and
environmental carcinogens.
Methods; this cross-sectional study was conducted among 328 Libyan participants aged 18 and
above, from the first of January until the 27th of April 2021. Data was collected through online
questionnaire which was validated through content validity and reliability tests.
Results; the majority of participants were female (77.1%) and 94.5% were either graduate or
post-graduate. The participants who have a medical background had significantly higher
knowledge scores for cancer etiology, risk factors, and environmental carcinogens.
Conclusions; Despite the fact that the Libyan public appears to be well-informed on cancer risk
factors, implementing a comprehensive cancer-related information campaigns in schools,
businesses, and society is highly suggested. Efforts should focus on cancer-related infections,
which has been linked to an elevated cancer risk. More studies on the prevalence of
carcinogenic exposure in society, both in terms of time and amounts, is needed.