Mexico launches “Yo elijo ser” campaign to combat obesity

Mexico has launched the “Yo elijo ser” campaign, a strategic initiative aimed at promoting healthy eating and physical activity to combat rising obesity rates. The campaign, developed with specialists and UNICEF, utilizes specific methodologies to target different age groups, including programs for children and adolescents.

Health officials reported that while Mexico has moved from the first to the eighth position globally in childhood obesity, the prevalence of weight-related issues remains a critical challenge. Data indicates that 75% of adults in the State of Mexico suffer from overweight or obesity, 40% of adolescents are affected, and over 36% of school-aged children face similar issues.

Celina Castañeda de la Lanza, the Secretary of Health for the State of Mexico, warned that obesity triggers severe conditions such as hypertension and mechanical problems in the spine, knees, and hips. Officials emphasized the need for coordinated preventive measures across federal, state, and municipal levels to address this health crisis.