Ahead of Diabetes Day: The alarming data on childhood obesity in the Arab community

Ahead of Diabetes Day, new data reveals high rates of obesity among Arab children: 19.3% among boys compared to 13.7% nationally. The 'Appetite Dictionary' program in Laqiya teaches 400 children healthy eating habits.

Ahead of International Diabetes Day, this article publishes alarming data on obesity rates among children and adolescents in the Arab community in Israel. The data shows that among boys aged 14-15, the obesity rate stands at 19.3% compared to 13.7% nationally. Among girls of the same age, the rate is 13.1% compared to 11.5%. Gaps also exist at younger ages. The article presents a new program called 'The Appetite Dictionary', operating in 15 kindergartens in the town of Laqiya in the Negev, teaching about 400 children to identify hunger and satiety cues through stories, games, and crafts. The content has been translated into Arabic and adapted to the local community. The program is accompanied by a nutritionist and in partnership with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, and JDC, with a budget of about 28,000 shekels.