To examine the interconnections between water, energy, and food insecurities and their collective impact on health outcomes.
Approach:
Scoping Review: A scoping review of 137 articles was conducted along with expert consultation to develop a conceptual framework linking WEF insecurities to health outcomes.
Key Findings:
WEF insecurities rarely operate in isolation and converge through shared pathways in South Africa.
Intermittent electricity affects refrigeration and water access, impacting hygiene and food safety in South Africa.
Dual household food and water insecurity in South Africa increases the risk of functional disability more than either exposure alone.
Energy insecurity in South Africa contributes to household air pollution and psychological distress.
Interpretation:
The framework specifies how resource insecurities in South Africa are associated with poor health, detailing mechanisms such as increased exposure to infections and mental health issues.
Limitations:
Some pathways remain insufficiently studied in South Africa, such as chemically polluted water and menstrual hygiene.
The framework is an evidence-informed map based on the study rather than a causal model.
Conclusion:
The study emphasizes the need for integrated research and policy approaches to address WEF insecurities in South Africa as a foundation for disease prevention and health equity.
