Obesity

Obesity

Obesity is a condition in which excess body fat reaches a level that endangers health. It is defined as a BMI (body mass index) of 30 or higher. Among Ethiopian Israelis in Israel, obesity is one of the fastest-growing health problems — a phenomenon scientists call "migration obesity."

The shift from relatively physically active lives (fieldwork, extensive walking) to Israeli urban living, combined with a dietary transition to simple sugars, refined carbohydrates, and fast food — leads to accelerated fat accumulation. Research shows that BMI increases markedly with each additional year of residence in Israel, particularly among women and in middle age.

The consequences of obesity are not limited to aesthetics: it is a primary risk factor for type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and certain cancers. Given the already-high prevalence of these conditions in the community — obesity significantly compounds the problem.

The most effective treatment approach combines: gradual dietary change (not extreme diets), increased physical activity (walking is the most accessible — 30 minutes/day), and group support. In Israel, health plans offer free weight management programs, and public health dietitians can provide counseling in Hebrew and sometimes other languages.