Prevalence of overweight and obesity in students aged 15 to 17 years enrolled in High School at a Mexican University

Abstract

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted involving 258 high school students aged 15 to 17 years, with 61.63% (n=159) being female. The most prevalent age group among both sexes was 17 years, accounting for 59.69%. The prevalence of overweight was found to be 20.54%, while the overall obesity rate was 3.88%.This study provided insights into the prevalence of overweight and obesity among students at Preparatoria No. 33 of UAGro. We recommend that adolescent students adopt healthier lifestyle changes, as their Body Mass Index (BMI) is likely to increase with age. Therefore, we suggest conducting more detailed studies to address this critical stage of life, as several experts have emphasized the importance of initiating such changes during adolescence.