State of Mexico joins national campaign to combat obesity, Digi Mart USA News (State of Mexico, Mexico): Given high rates of overweight and obesity in Mexico, the Government of the State of Mexico has joined the national campaign “Yo Elijo Ser,” which seeks to promote healthy eating, increase physical activity and reduce the risks of developing chronic diseases.
During the presentation of the Campaign for Social and Behavioral Change Communication, state Health Secretary Celina Castañeda de la Lanza reported that overweight and obesity affect 75% of adults, 40% of adolescents and 36% of girls and boys, figures that reflect the magnitude of the public health problem.
The official said the administration of Governor Delfina Gómez Álvarez will take part in the strategy through guidance and prevention actions, with the aim of helping families across the state adopt healthy habits.
Daniel Aceves Villagrán, director general of Public Health Policies at the federal Ministry of Health, explained that the initiative includes three communication lines tailored to the needs of the population.
“Estrellas por la Salud” will target girls and boys aged zero to 12. “Comer como Campeón o Campeona” will seek to involve adolescents, while “Yo Elijo Ser” will focus on adults.
Each program will include nutrition guides, exercise recommendations and informational materials to support changes in daily habits.
Arturo Miranda Valdés, deputy director of Public Health Communication, said economic, social and family factors that influence decisions about diet and physical activity will also be taken into account.
Arturo González Ledezma, state coordinator of IMSS-Bienestar, said the participation of health institutions will expand the reach of preventive actions and bring information closer to communities.
Angélica Rodríguez Aguirre, head of Public Health Communication at the Health Institute of the State of Mexico (ISEM), explained that the campaign will promote reducing consumption of ultra-processed foods and regular physical activity.
These actions aim to reduce risk factors associated with diabetes, high blood pressure, chronic kidney failure and some types of cancer through prevention and public participation.
The strategy also seeks to strengthen health education from early ages and encourage environments that support balanced diets and more active lifestyles.
