Clinically underweight
9%
BMI < 18.5
Bodyweight loss since 2023
-18% (-23% to -12%)
Median (25%-75%)
Participants
253
52 providing ongoing updates
This project provides real-time information on the nutritional status of humanitarian staff in Gaza by tracking changes in weight and Body Mass Index (BMI). Our aim is to inform humanitarian decision-making, advocacy, and diplomatic action to improve the lives of the affected population. These key insights are calculated using data from all participants from a selected organisation (or overall, if the ‘All Participants’ tab is selected). For further information on data generation and quality please see the Study Protocol and the Participation tab.
Change in Body Mass Index (BMI) from pre-war
The below plot compares the percentage of the surveyed population that falls into each WHO BMI category (underweight, normal, overweight, obese) from pre-war (2023) to currently.
Current BMI
|
Total | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Underweight | Normal | Overweight | Obese | ||
| Pre-war BMI | |||||
| Underweight | 1 (100%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 1 (100%) |
| Normal | 17 (30%) | 40 (70%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 57 (100%) |
| Overweight | 4 (4%) | 77 (84%) | 11 (12%) | 0 (0%) | 92 (100%) |
| Obese | 0 (0%) | 27 (30%) | 48 (53%) | 15 (17%) | 90 (100%) |
| Total | 22 (9%) | 144 (60%) | 59 (25%) | 15 (6%) | 240 (100%) |
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification1. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI2, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.This tab shows overall results for this organisation.
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification3. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI4, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification5. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by biological sex as declared by participants (male/female/prefer not to answer).
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification8. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI9, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification10. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by age (<30 years old, 30-45 years old, >45 years old).
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification13. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI14, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification15. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by the number of child dependants under the care of the participant.
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification18. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI19, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification20. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by humanitarian staff role.
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification23. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI24, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification25. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by location, using Gaza governorates.
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification28. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI29, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification30. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
Participants
The below chart shows data collected from participants over time, separated into new joiners and returning participants. The stacked bars indicate the weekly totals by participant type, and the grey line shows the cumulative number of participants over time.
About the data
Participation from newly recruited participants (light green), or repeat measurements from returning participants (dark blue); with cumulative number of unique participants over time (shaded grey area) and their unique measurements (grey line).Demographics
| Characteristic | Overall N = 2531 |
Study entry N = 2011 |
Follow up N = 521 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | |||
| Age under 30 | 56 (22%) | 48 (24%) | 8 (15%) |
| Age 30-45 | 129 (51%) | 102 (51%) | 27 (52%) |
| Age over 45 | 68 (27%) | 51 (25%) | 17 (33%) |
| Dependent children | |||
| 0 children | 107 (42%) | 91 (46%) | 16 (31%) |
| 1 child | 44 (17%) | 31 (16%) | 13 (25%) |
| 2 children | 43 (17%) | 32 (16%) | 11 (21%) |
| 3+ children | 58 (23%) | 46 (23%) | 12 (23%) |
| Missing | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Governorate | |||
| North Gaza | 16 (6.3%) | 15 (7.5%) | 1 (1.9%) |
| Gaza City | 105 (42%) | 94 (47%) | 11 (21%) |
| Deir Al Balah | 38 (15%) | 14 (7.0%) | 24 (46%) |
| Khan Yunis | 93 (37%) | 77 (38%) | 16 (31%) |
| Rafah | 1 (0.4%) | 1 (0.5%) | 0 (0%) |
| Staff role | |||
| Other | 10 (4.0%) | 5 (2.5%) | 5 (9.6%) |
| Staff expatriate | 2 (0.8%) | 2 (1.0%) | 0 (0%) |
| Staff national | 155 (61%) | 120 (60%) | 35 (67%) |
| Staff contractor | 1 (0.4%) | 1 (0.5%) | 0 (0%) |
| Casual worker | 85 (34%) | 73 (36%) | 12 (23%) |
| Sex | |||
| Male | 112 (44%) | 92 (46%) | 20 (38%) |
| Female | 141 (56%) | 109 (54%) | 32 (62%) |
| 1 n (%) | |||
Data
| Observations | N = 2531 |
|---|---|
| Number of observations by timepoint | |
| Study entry | 201 (79%) |
| Follow up | 52 (21%) |
| Number of observations per participant | |
| 1 | 201 (79%) |
| 2 | 24 (9.5%) |
| 3 | 18 (7.1%) |
| 4 | 6 (2.4%) |
| 5 | 2 (0.8%) |
| 6 | 1 (0.4%) |
| 9 | 1 (0.4%) |
| Excluded observations | |
| Excluded (weight <30kg or >180kg) | 1 (0.4%) |
| Excluded (conflicting double record at study entry) | 11 (4.3%) |
| Included | 241 (95%) |
| Exclusion criteria indicate observation recorded but outside of valid range, and treated as missing. Valid ranges: weight, 30-180kg; BMI: 10-60; daily rate of change in weight since study entry over +/-10%; age, 16-99 years; dependent children, 0-20 | |
| 1 n (%) | |
Clinically underweight
9%
BMI < 18.5
Bodyweight loss since 2023
-18% (-23% to -12%)
Median (25%-75%)
Participants
240
49 providing ongoing updates
This project provides real-time information on the nutritional status of humanitarian staff in Gaza by tracking changes in weight and Body Mass Index (BMI). Our aim is to inform humanitarian decision-making, advocacy, and diplomatic action to improve the lives of the affected population. These key insights are calculated using data from all participants from a selected organisation (or overall, if the ‘All Participants’ tab is selected). For further information on data generation and quality please see the Study Protocol and the Participation tab.
Change in Body Mass Index (BMI) from pre-war
The below plot compares the percentage of the surveyed population that falls into each WHO BMI category (underweight, normal, overweight, obese) from pre-war (2023) to currently.
Current BMI
|
Total | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Underweight | Normal | Overweight | Obese | ||
| Pre-war BMI | |||||
| Underweight | 1 (100%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 1 (100%) |
| Normal | 17 (30%) | 39 (70%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 56 (100%) |
| Overweight | 4 (5%) | 71 (83%) | 11 (13%) | 0 (0%) | 86 (100%) |
| Obese | 0 (0%) | 27 (32%) | 43 (51%) | 15 (18%) | 85 (100%) |
| Total | 22 (10%) | 137 (60%) | 54 (24%) | 15 (7%) | 228 (100%) |
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification33. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI34, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.This tab shows overall results for this organisation.
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification35. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI36, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification37. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by biological sex as declared by participants (male/female/prefer not to answer).
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification40. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI41, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification42. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by age (<30 years old, 30-45 years old, >45 years old).
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification45. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI46, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification47. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by the number of child dependants under the care of the participant.
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification50. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI51, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification52. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by humanitarian staff role.
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification55. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI56, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification57. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by location, using Gaza governorates.
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification60. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI61, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification62. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
Participants
The below chart shows data collected from participants over time, separated into new joiners and returning participants. The stacked bars indicate the weekly totals by participant type, and the grey line shows the cumulative number of participants over time.
About the data
Participation from newly recruited participants (light green), or repeat measurements from returning participants (dark blue); with cumulative number of unique participants over time (shaded grey area) and their unique measurements (grey line).Demographics
| Characteristic | Overall N = 2401 |
Study entry N = 1911 |
Follow up N = 491 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | |||
| Age under 30 | 56 (23%) | 48 (25%) | 8 (16%) |
| Age 30-45 | 119 (50%) | 94 (49%) | 25 (51%) |
| Age over 45 | 65 (27%) | 49 (26%) | 16 (33%) |
| Dependent children | |||
| 0 children | 103 (43%) | 88 (46%) | 15 (31%) |
| 1 child | 42 (18%) | 29 (15%) | 13 (27%) |
| 2 children | 41 (17%) | 31 (16%) | 10 (20%) |
| 3+ children | 53 (22%) | 42 (22%) | 11 (22%) |
| Missing | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Governorate | |||
| North Gaza | 15 (6.3%) | 15 (7.9%) | 0 (0%) |
| Gaza City | 102 (43%) | 92 (48%) | 10 (20%) |
| Deir Al Balah | 30 (13%) | 7 (3.7%) | 23 (47%) |
| Khan Yunis | 92 (38%) | 76 (40%) | 16 (33%) |
| Rafah | 1 (0.4%) | 1 (0.5%) | 0 (0%) |
| Staff role | |||
| Other | 10 (4.2%) | 5 (2.6%) | 5 (10%) |
| Staff expatriate | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| Staff national | 145 (60%) | 113 (59%) | 32 (65%) |
| Staff contractor | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| Casual worker | 85 (35%) | 73 (38%) | 12 (24%) |
| Sex | |||
| Male | 102 (43%) | 85 (45%) | 17 (35%) |
| Female | 138 (58%) | 106 (55%) | 32 (65%) |
| 1 n (%) | |||
Data
| Observations | N = 2401 |
|---|---|
| Number of observations by timepoint | |
| Study entry | 191 (80%) |
| Follow up | 49 (20%) |
| Number of observations per participant | |
| 1 | 191 (80%) |
| 2 | 22 (9.2%) |
| 3 | 18 (7.5%) |
| 4 | 6 (2.5%) |
| 5 | 2 (0.8%) |
| 6 | 1 (0.4%) |
| Excluded observations | |
| Excluded (weight <30kg or >180kg) | 1 (0.4%) |
| Excluded (conflicting double record at study entry) | 10 (4.2%) |
| Included | 229 (95%) |
| Exclusion criteria indicate observation recorded but outside of valid range, and treated as missing. Valid ranges: weight, 30-180kg; BMI: 10-60; daily rate of change in weight since study entry over +/-10%; age, 16-99 years; dependent children, 0-20 | |
| 1 n (%) | |
Clinically underweight
0%
BMI < 18.5
Bodyweight loss since 2023
-20% (-23% to -16%)
Median (25%-75%)
Participants
13
3 providing ongoing updates
This project provides real-time information on the nutritional status of humanitarian staff in Gaza by tracking changes in weight and Body Mass Index (BMI). Our aim is to inform humanitarian decision-making, advocacy, and diplomatic action to improve the lives of the affected population. These key insights are calculated using data from all participants from a selected organisation (or overall, if the ‘All Participants’ tab is selected). For further information on data generation and quality please see the Study Protocol and the Participation tab.
Change in Body Mass Index (BMI) from pre-war
The below plot compares the percentage of the surveyed population that falls into each WHO BMI category (underweight, normal, overweight, obese) from pre-war (2023) to currently.
Current BMI
|
Total | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Underweight | Normal | Overweight | Obese | ||
| Pre-war BMI | |||||
| Underweight | 0 (NA%) | 0 (NA%) | 0 (NA%) | 0 (NA%) | 0 (NA%) |
| Normal | 0 (0%) | 1 (100%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 1 (100%) |
| Overweight | 0 (0%) | 6 (100%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 6 (100%) |
| Obese | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 5 (100%) | 0 (0%) | 5 (100%) |
| Total | 0 (0%) | 7 (58%) | 5 (42%) | 0 (0%) | 12 (100%) |
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification65. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI66, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.This tab shows overall results for this organisation.
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification67. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI68, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification69. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by biological sex as declared by participants (male/female/prefer not to answer).
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification72. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI73, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification74. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by age (<30 years old, 30-45 years old, >45 years old).
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification77. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI78, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification79. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by the number of child dependants under the care of the participant.
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification82. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI83, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification84. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by humanitarian staff role.
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification87. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI88, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification89. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
This tab shows results stratified by location, using Gaza governorates.
Current BMI compared to pre-war
The below chart shows the distribution of BMI categories before the war and currently. Each bar represents the proportion of people in the underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories.
About the data
The percentage of participants by BMI classification92. Showing all participants’ pre-war BMI93, and the most recent (‘current’) measurement from each participant since the study began in July 2025. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly trends in BMI
The below chart shows the weekly distribution of BMI categories (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) across different dates. Each bar represents the proportion of participants measured in that week. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
About the data
The percentage of participants each week by BMI classification94. Colour intensity shows number of participants measured each week. Underweight BMI classification (<18.5kg/m2) shown in yellow; with light to dark green, showing normal weight range (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25 to 29.9kg/m2), and obese (over 30kg/m2) classifications.Weekly change compared to pre-war
The below chart shows weekly percentage weight changes (averaged for population or by demographic group). Each circular point represents the median value, with vertical lines showing the range between the first and third quartiles. The strength of the colour indicates the volume of data collected: lighter for fewer participants and darker for more participants.
Participants
The below chart shows data collected from participants over time, separated into new joiners and returning participants. The stacked bars indicate the weekly totals by participant type, and the grey line shows the cumulative number of participants over time.
About the data
Participation from newly recruited participants (light green), or repeat measurements from returning participants (dark blue); with cumulative number of unique participants over time (shaded grey area) and their unique measurements (grey line).Demographics
| Characteristic | Overall N = 131 |
Study entry N = 101 |
Follow up N = 31 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | |||
| Age under 30 | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| Age 30-45 | 10 (77%) | 8 (80%) | 2 (67%) |
| Age over 45 | 3 (23%) | 2 (20%) | 1 (33%) |
| Dependent children | |||
| 0 children | 4 (31%) | 3 (30%) | 1 (33%) |
| 1 child | 2 (15%) | 2 (20%) | 0 (0%) |
| 2 children | 2 (15%) | 1 (10%) | 1 (33%) |
| 3+ children | 5 (38%) | 4 (40%) | 1 (33%) |
| Governorate | |||
| North Gaza | 1 (7.7%) | 0 (0%) | 1 (33%) |
| Gaza City | 3 (23%) | 2 (20%) | 1 (33%) |
| Deir Al Balah | 8 (62%) | 7 (70%) | 1 (33%) |
| Khan Yunis | 1 (7.7%) | 1 (10%) | 0 (0%) |
| Rafah | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| Staff role | |||
| Other | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| Staff expatriate | 2 (15%) | 2 (20%) | 0 (0%) |
| Staff national | 10 (77%) | 7 (70%) | 3 (100%) |
| Staff contractor | 1 (7.7%) | 1 (10%) | 0 (0%) |
| Casual worker | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| Sex | |||
| Male | 10 (77%) | 7 (70%) | 3 (100%) |
| Female | 3 (23%) | 3 (30%) | 0 (0%) |
| 1 n (%) | |||
Data
| Observations | N = 131 |
|---|---|
| Number of observations by timepoint | |
| Study entry | 10 (77%) |
| Follow up | 3 (23%) |
| Number of observations per participant | |
| 1 | 10 (77%) |
| 2 | 2 (15%) |
| 9 | 1 (7.7%) |
| Excluded observations | |
| Excluded (weight <30kg or >180kg) | 0 (0%) |
| Excluded (conflicting double record at study entry) | 1 (7.7%) |
| Included | 12 (92%) |
| Exclusion criteria indicate observation recorded but outside of valid range, and treated as missing. Valid ranges: weight, 30-180kg; BMI: 10-60; daily rate of change in weight since study entry over +/-10%; age, 16-99 years; dependent children, 0-20 | |
| 1 n (%) | |