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Abelardo Ávila-Curiel1, Marti Yareli Del Monte-Vega2, Marco Antonio Ávila-Arcos3
1Departamento de Nutrición Aplicada y Educación Nutricional, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán. Ciudad de México, México.. abelardo.avilac@incmnsz.mx.
Salud Publica De Mexico
|February 16, 2026
Summary
The prevalence of overweight and obesity in Morelos schoolchildren increased significantly between 2013 and 2016. State prevention strategies were ineffective against the growing obesogenic environment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Childhood overweight and obesity (SyO) represent a significant public health challenge.
- Understanding trends and the impact of interventions is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the evolution of overweight and obesity (SyO) in Morelos schoolchildren from 2013 to 2016.
- To critically evaluate the effectiveness of state-level prevention strategies during this period.
Main Methods:
- Comparative epidemiological analysis of two cross-sectional studies.
- Anthropometric data from students in 147 full-time primary schools.
- Prevalence estimation with 95% confidence intervals and logistic regression modeling.
Main Results:
- Joint prevalence of SyO increased from 33.7% to 38.8% (p <0.001).
- Increases were more pronounced in higher grades and in areas with medium and low marginalization.
- Obesity expanded territorially and socially, indicating a more homogeneous and aggressive obesogenic environment.
Conclusions:
- State policies failed to alter the obesogenic environment or structural determinants of childhood SyO.
- A systemic approach is needed, including effective regulation, sustained funding, and continuous evaluation.
- School interventions must be integrated within a framework ensuring institutional leadership and effective intersectoral coordination.