63. Smith, C. Water Supply, Sanitation and Health in the West Bank. Birzeit University Community Health Unit, 1987, 24 pp.

A summary of information concerning water supply, sanitation and health in the West Bank is presented, drawing on other published data, and previous water quality and environmental studies conducted by the Birzeit University Community Health Unit.

Data from water quality surveys including piped supplies, rain-fed cisterns, springs and open canals are presented in which the level of fecal contamination was estimated using the fecal coliform index.

The main forms of excreta disposal in use are reviewed. Finally the implications for health and health development are discussed. It is argued that the health benefits of making piped water available to villages would be greater if combined with planning for sanitation and environmental improvement.