The number of obese Israelis has nearly tripled over the past 30 years, according to a report from five physicians who examined data on 1.14 million conscription candidates between 1967 and 2003.

Their study found that low socio-economic standing and less education increase chances of obesity. Families of African or Asian descent are more likely to be thinner.

According to the study, the percentage of obese Israeli boys rose steadily from 1.2 per cent in 1967 to 3.8 per cent in 1993. A significant increase was noted for those born after 1970 — roughly when living standards began to improve.

The researchers who carried out the study want to research further the link between increasing income inequality and the sharp increase in the number of overweight youths in the poorer classes. They urged intervention and better education at an early age to promote better eating habits.