Over Half of Israeli Diabetics Under 65 Are Obese
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
A 2025 report indicates that over half of Israeli diabetics aged 20-64 are obese, a slight increase from the previous year. A specialist stressed the importance of integrating weight management into diabetes care and monitoring for complications. The report also noted a decline in essential foot and eye screenings for diabetic patients.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Over half of Israeli diabetics aged 20-64 are obese, according to a 2025 quality indicators report.
- 20.7% of diabetic adults aged 20-64 have a BMI of 35 or higher.
- The rate of foot examinations for diabetic patients decreased to 63.7% in 2025.
- Eye screenings for diabetic patients also saw a decline, falling to 71.4% in 2025.
- A specialist urged integrating weight management into diabetes care plans.
A report on quality indicators for community medicine in 2025 reveals that 51.4% of Israelis aged 20 to 64 diagnosed with diabetes are also living with obesity. Among this group, 20.7% have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or higher. This figure represents an increase from the previous year, when the overall obesity rate in this age bracket was 50%.
Dr. Asnat Raziel, a specialist in obesity treatment, metabolic health, and healthy longevity, emphasized the critical need to integrate weight management into diabetes care plans. She stated that medical assessments for diabetic patients should also encompass blood pressure, blood lipids, kidney function, eye health, and foot health to minimize complications and maintain quality of life over the long term.
The report also highlighted a concerning decline in routine screenings for diabetic patients. The rate of foot examinations dropped from 66.2% in 2024 to 63.7% in 2025, and eye screenings for retinal damage decreased from 73.7% to 71.4%. These statistics apply to all diabetic patients in the monitoring group, not exclusively those with obesity.
Dr. Raziel advised patients to ensure their treatment plans include weight management and appropriate follow-up examinations at their next clinic appointments. Treatment should be personalized based on the patient's medical condition, existing medications, and individual goals, aiming to maintain blood sugar control while monitoring for potential organ damage.
