Health Disparities Among Ultra-Orthodox and Non-Ultra-Orthodox Residents in Neighboring Cities in Israel: A Cross-Sectional Study

Socioeconomic status and religion are associated with health indicators. This study compared the correlations between religious observance, socioeconomic status, and select health indicators among adults in neighboring cities in Israel based on data collected from the Maccabi Health Services database. One city is characterized by religious observance, while the other is primarily secular. Lower smoking rates and higher rates of low cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL levels were observed in the religious city. No significant differences were found for low HDL rates or diabetes. Unique characteristics of populations must be considered when planning health interventions.