Identifying Settler Colonial Determinants of Health (SCDH) as the Upstream Cause of Palestinian Ill Health Is Both Incorrect and Harmful

Linda Young Landesman, Maya Korin, Stacey Plichta, Brian Englander, Ora Paltiel, and Public Health Professionals Against Antisemitism Working Group

Abstract

Extremism, displacement, and ongoing conflict have affected Palestinians and Israelis personally and collectively, endangering their health and lives. A theory circulating in public health publications posits that settler colonial determinants of health (SCDH) are the root cause of health inequities in the region. We argue that this assertion is misleading, ignores key facts, and exacerbates polarization, thus harming health. Public health is an evidence-based, scientific discipline based on hypotheses, research, and analysis. Throughout the scientific process, careful assessments of bias are essential. Knowledge is subsequently translated into policy and action. The SCDH theory rejects this approach as tainted by “colonialism.” We also argue that the SCDH concept, as applied to health disparities in Israel-Palestine, is an ideologically driven theory in search of evidence. Rather than developing testable hypotheses, the promoters of SCDH use selective evidence to support its relevance to health in the region. The theory collapses when examined against relevant facts related to regional history and the health status of Israelis and Palestinians. It invokes one-sided racism as a driver of health inequities in a context-inappropriate manner, and ignores many upstream determinants including actions of the Palestinian leadership, and their role as drivers of health. It denigrates peace-building and collaboration which are key to future health and wellbeing in the region, and which have a proven record in improving health outcomes. We call on public health professionals to distance themselves from unfounded rhetoric that polarizes the communities, and undermines the discipline’s scientific integrity, while contributing nothing to promote health in the region.

Rambam Maimonides Med J 2025;16(2):e0009