2) Prof. Maya Negev

The Middle East is a climate change hotspot. In Israel, peripheral regions—particularly the arid South—have vulnerable populations, with documented healthcare access disparities. As climate change worsens health conditions, strategies must minimise climate-related hazards and integrate community perspectives. This study aimed to identify climate-related health perceptions, exposures, and behaviors, and evaluate community and healthcare capabilities. This mixed-methods study included qualitative and quantitative data collection through a national survey (n=1,492) that examined correlations between community characteristics, climate knowledge, hazard exposure, and coping mechanisms. In the Negev Desert, focus groups (n=69) explored climate risk perceptions. Vulnerable populations face more exposure to extreme events and practice everyday adaptation. Nationally, 46% reported missing medical appointments due to climate events, including 65% of Muslims and 35% of Jews. For coping with heat, 58% of Jews used air-conditioning, compared to 42% of Arabs. In the Desert, 25% of Jews and 29% of Muslims reported “bearing the heat”. Younger adults (18–65) were likelier to seek social support, with 21% visiting family or friends during heat, compared to 9.8% of those 65+. Focus groups revealed themes: health impacts, structural barriers, trust in authorities, and community-support mechanisms. Everyday adaptation without state support is common but insufficient. Vulnerable populations’ climate change experiences are shaped by poverty, marginalization, and service access barriers. Climate change worsens health inequalities, especially in peripheral regions. Enhancing healthcare resilience, supporting adaptation, and incorporating community perspectives into policymaking are essential for resilience. Health systems must promote equitable adaptation and protect health in a changing climate.