Civilians under missile attack: post-traumatic stress disorder among the Jewish and Bedouin population of Southern Israel

The findings of this study demonstrate a significantly higher prevalence of PTSD among the Bedouin population of Southern Israel. Several sociodemographic characteristics were associated with the increased prevalence of PTSD, the most prominent of which was low SES. Healthcare professionals and authorities should be proactive in screening for PTSD, and provide tailored treatment and support, taking into account ethnical and cultural background. Authorities should address the disparity in bomb shelter access and siren warning coverage between Bedouin and Jewish communities.