Perceived Health Risks, Health Behaviors, and BMI Among Diverse Adults in Israel

Introduction: Obesity is associated with an increased relative risk of COVID-19-related mortality. The interplay of culture and religion in the overweight/obesity context has been minimally examined. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between preventive health behaviors, sociodemographic factors, and obesity among religiously diverse adults in Israel. Methods: Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, an online survey was distributed to diverse adults in Israel during the pandemic using social media, email, and snowball methods. Results: Participants included 635 adults: 69.1% Jewish, 26.5% Muslim, and 4.4% “other.” Jewish adults scored lower than others on perceived personal risk (p <.001), infection spread risk (p <.001), and preventive behaviors engagement (p <.005). Higher body mass index (BMI) predicted higher personal risk and higher likelihood of preventive behaviors engagement (p <.001). Discussion: Results demonstrate the association between religion, health risk perceptions, and COVID-19-related health behaviors. Nurses should consider the influence of culture and religion on health practices and recommend relevant lifestyle modifications to reduce COVID-19 risks.