In the context of strengthening continuous medical education and the need to address one of the main public health problems in Mexico, the National Medical Center '20 de Noviembre' of ISSSTE, through its Medical Society, hosted the 1st Course to Commemorate the 'National Day to Raise Awareness about Obesity'. This academic space brought together specialists from various disciplines to analyze the clinical, social, and economic impact of this disease.
Francisco Javier Cedillo Díaz, president of the Medical Society of the National Medical Center, highlighted that these types of meetings represent an opportunity to resume in-person academic exchange and strengthen a multidisciplinary approach to obesity, a condition that he emphasized involves not only physicians but also nutritionists, psychologists, dietitians, and other health professionals. The specialist pointed out that obesity is a disease that affects all stages of life and has significant repercussions on morbidity and mortality, in addition to generating substantial economic and social impacts.
The course concluded with a reflection on the relationship between obesity and society, highlighting the need to move from a clinical approach to a collective responsibility. Specialists agreed that obesity represents an epidemic with multiple dimensions that requires the coordinated participation of different sectors. In this context, the need was emphasized to understand obesity as a complex phenomenon involving psychological, social, and cultural factors, which demands more comprehensive strategies and less focus solely on dietary restriction.
The final block of the program focused on clinical treatment, including individualized nutritional therapy. Current trends in obesity and its economic burden in Mexico were analyzed, while Dr. Rebeca Cambray Guerra stressed that obesity must be understood as a public health problem that requires timely interventions and comprehensive strategies, including lifestyle modifications and a review of ultra-processed food consumption. Medical education, prevention, timely diagnosis, and comprehensive treatment are positioned as key elements to face this challenge.
Topics such as metabolic syndrome, the role of adipose tissue as a metabolically active organ, and obesity as a chronic disease based on adiposity were also discussed. The care of hospitalized patients with obesity and the relevance of physical activity as a metabolic intervention were addressed. It was noted that on average, Mexicans consume about 30% of ultra-processed foods, which significantly contributes to weight gain in the population. The importance of incorporating innovative approaches to treatment, such as mindful eating, was also emphasized.
