This study employs a One Health approach to investigate the complex interplay between lifestyle, environment, and health in Bedouin communities of the Negev desert, Israel. Using mixed methods, including quantitative surveys, qualitative semi-structured interviews, and a Delphi expert survey, we explore Bedouin knowledge, behaviors, and practices related to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), and animal husbandry across recognized and unrecognized villages.
Our findings reveal significant challenges in infrastructure and healthcare access, which have profound implications for human and animal health, as well as environmental sustainability. The lack of proper wastewater treatment and waste management systems in many villages leads to environmental contamination and potential health risks. Water scarcity and quality issues further compound these challenges.
The study also highlights the persistence of traditional practices, particularly in animal husbandry, which play a crucial role in Bedouin identity and economy. However, these practices are increasingly strained by urbanization and land-use changes, creating tensions between cultural preservation and public health concerns.
Importantly, our research uncovers adaptive strategies employed by Bedouin communities to navigate these challenges, including innovative water management techniques and the integration of traditional knowledge with modern veterinary practices.
This holistic examination of Bedouin communities through a One Health approach provides valuable insights into the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health in marginalized populations. Our findings underscore the need for culturally sensitive and integrated interventions that address not only immediate health concerns but also underlying socio-economic and environmental factors.
