The Pattern of Reviewing Sustainable Development and Security Research in Southeastern Iran: A Scoping Review of Biological, Environmental, and Health Challenges with an Integrated Policy-Making Perspective

Background and Aim: This scoping review examines research on sustainable development and security in southeastern Iran, focusing on Sistan and Baluchestan Province, based on over 127 national and international sources from 2014 to 2025. The primary aim is to map the current state of research across key axes: health equity, biological threats and bio-defense, water scarcity crisis, dust storms and social health impacts on marginalized populations, institutional synergy, and foresight of emerging threats.
Methods: The methodology follows the Arksey and O'Malley (2005) framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, involving systematic searches in databases like SID, PubMed, Scopus, and official reports; screening with inclusion/exclusion criteria; data extraction using quantitative tools (Gini coefficient, Moran's statistics) and qualitative methods (thematic analysis); and SWOT analysis for each axis.
Results: Findings reveal persistent inequalities in health equity: Gini coefficient for general practitioner distribution at 0.223-0.438 (higher than national average 0.19-0.22), with over 60% resources concentrated in major cities. Biological threats, such as bioterrorism, rank among the top five global risks, with simulations indicating 30-50% societal impact.
Conclusion: Basij Medical Society covered over 65-75% of marginal areas during COVID-19, providing over 450,000 free visits and 180,000 mobile vaccinations. Water scarcity features annual groundwater decline of 50-80 cm, with participatory models increasing farmer involvement by 30-40%; forecasts to 2036 predict 18-25% rise in invasive vectors (malaria, leishmaniasis). Dust storms (PM10 up to 3,000 µg/m³) lead to 45-65% increase in child respiratory hospitalizations and 30-45% mental disorders in marginalized communities, with low social capital worsening health outcomes by 28-35%. Institutional HSE synergy reduces biological risks by 20-30% and boosts border service coverage to 80%. SWOT analysis highlights gaps like the absence of integrated multivariate models. Recommendations include conducting a comprehensive scoping review for data synthesis and evidence-based policy-making. This study provides a scientific foundation for the "Basij, Development, and Sustainable Security in Southeastern Iran" conference to strengthen the link between science and practice.