Obesity and overweight continue to pose an urgent challenge to public health in Mexico. These conditions can trigger serious diseases such as diabetes, cancer, hypertension, and other disorders, according to the Ministry of Health. To address this problem, the importance of a balanced diet and regular physical activity is emphasized as key measures to improve quality of life and combat obesity.
The study shows notable differences between genders, with the prevalence of obesity being higher in women and overweight being more common in men. Additionally, it highlights that obesity affects rural areas more than urban ones, debunking the belief that this problem is exclusive to cities. Even the adolescent population is affected, with an alarming percentage of young people aged 12 to 19 experiencing overweight or obesity, underscoring the need for preventive interventions from an early age.
Elizabeth Pérez Cruz, coordinator of the Obesity Clinic at Hospital Juárez in Mexico, calls on the population to join the fight against obesity through timely prevention, detection, and treatment. She highlights that proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and early medical consultation are essential to address this complex disease. Furthermore, she emphasizes the importance of front labeling of foods as a crucial tool to protect health and guarantee the right to information, especially for children and adolescents.
On the occasion of World Obesity Day, observed on March 4, it is emphasized that this disease is associated with various conditions such as sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, and other health issues. The expert highlights a new approach to the diagnosis of obesity, which prioritizes body composition over the simple relationship between weight and height.
According to the 2023 National Survey on Health and Nutrition, overweight affects 37.3% of adults and 38.9% suffer from obesity in Mexico. This survey allows for the assessment of health risks considering the amount of fat and muscle of each individual, which is vital for determining a person's metabolic health. The aim of World Obesity Day is to raise awareness among the population about this disease, increase consciousness about its risks, and promote prevention and health promotion actions to encourage healthy habits.
The Mexican government has implemented various comprehensive strategies to promote healthy lifestyles, such as the "Live Healthy" and "Live Happy" programs in basic education schools across the country, as well as "3 X MY HEALTH", promoted by the Undersecretariat of Health Policies and Population Well-Being.
