Half a Million Israelis Suffer from Eczema as Cases Increase by 26%

Jerusalem, 4 June, 2025 (TPS-IL) — Israel sees about 70,000 new cases of eczema annually, with a 26% rise in patient numbers over the past six years, according to health fund data presented to the Knesset Health Committee on Wednesday. With half a million Israelis affected, experts warned of long wait times, high medication costs, and widespread emotional distress, especially among children. Acting Chairwoman of the Committee, MK Kati Shitrit urged the Health Ministry to launch an awareness campaign and improve access to care.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes the skin to become red, dry, itchy, and sometimes cracked or scaly. Eczema is not contagious, but it can be genetic and is often linked to other allergic conditions like asthma and hay fever.