New Study Identifies Housing Crisis as a Critical Public Health Issue in Israel

A recent study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem reveals alarming links between housing conditions and public health in Israel, suggesting that the ongoing housing crisis poses a significant health challenge. Conducted by Jordan Hannink Attal, affiliated with both the Hebrew University and the University of Melbourne, alongside Professor Yehuda Neumark from the Hebrew University, the study underscores the urgent need for reform in housing policy as a matter of public health. This research, published in the Israel Journal of Health Policy Research on July 8, 2025, draws upon global research methodologies and local data to highlight the critical state of housing in Israel, particularly for the most vulnerable populations.

The study’s findings indicate that over 30% of Israelis allocate more than one-third of their income towards housing, a figure that escalates to over 50% for low-income households. This financial strain significantly affects both mental and physical health, with living conditions such as mold, poor ventilation, and inadequate insulation being correlated with various health issues, including asthma and cardiovascular diseases. The authors argue that housing should be recognized as a primary determinant of health, challenging traditional views that often prioritize healthcare access and medical services over stable housing conditions.

Attal and Neumark emphasize the lack of comprehensive data collection in Israel regarding the health impacts of poor housing, contrasting it with countries like New Zealand and Australia, where health and housing research is systematically integrated into policymaking. They advocate for the establishment of a national research initiative that would collaborate with experts from various fields, including epidemiology and urban planning, to address the intersection of health and housing.

The implications of this research extend beyond individual health, touching on broader social and economic issues. The chronic underinvestment in affordable housing is not only a social justice concern but also represents a moral imperative within a democratic society, as stated by the researchers. They call for a robust, interdisciplinary effort to reform policies related to housing, arguing that such changes are essential for improving health outcomes and reducing inequalities.

As the authors conclude, ‘This is not only an economic necessity; it is a moral imperative in a democratic society.’ The urgent call for action reflects the pressing need for an integrated approach to housing and health in Israel, positioning housing reform as a pivotal component in the quest for public health improvements and social equity. The study serves as a crucial catalyst for dialogue among policymakers, health professionals, and community advocates, aiming to elevate the issue of housing from a mere economic concern to a significant public health priority.