School environment and overweight and obesity in Mexican student of primary and secondary school

Abstract

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in Mexican Student of primary and secondary school is elevated (31.3%).ObjectiveTo describe some key school environment items related to childhood obesity.MethodsInformation from 374 scholastic establishments from the National Health Survey of students (ENSE‐2008) was included in the analysis. The items have a documented relationship to childhood obesity and are likely contributors to diet quality and physical activity. Items included were: water available, sweetened beverage, foods with low nutritional value available in and out the school and physical activity at the school (minutes per day).ResultsIn the school, 58.2% there was water available to drink, 85% sold candies, snacks, sodas and sweetened drinks; 49.3% sold fresh fruits and only 23.7% vegetables. Out side of the school, 48.2% sold candies, snacks, sodas and sweetened drinks; 29.9% sold fresh fruits and only 9% vegetables. The average of physical activity was 20 min/day).ConclusionInterventions that promote healthy eating and physical activity behaviors during childhood and adolescence are necessary in Mexican schools, since not only they may prevent some of the causes of illness but also may decrease direct health‐care costs and improve quality of life.Supported by the Rios Aronte Foundation, and Fondo de Apoyo al Programa Intersectorial de Educación Saludable.