Video Games, Screens, and the Rising Weight of Mexican Teens

Mexico’s adolescent obesity rate has risen sharply, with over 40 % of teens now classified as overweight or obese—an increase from 17.6 % to 18.1 % between 2020 and 2023.

Key Drivers

• Surge in Screen Time
  The COVID‑19 lockdowns accelerated early and easy access to smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles. Long hours of inactivity turned leisure into a sedentary habit.

• Shift Toward Sedentary Living
  Meals are increasingly grabbed on the go, and physical activity is pushed to the sidelines.

• Video Game Play
  Research shows that the longer a teen spends playing video games, the higher their risk of excess weight gain.

Beyond Calories

• Disrupted Sleep Patterns
  Extended screen use often leads to irregular sleep schedules, which can influence metabolism.

• Increased Stress
  High stress levels, common among teens with heavy screen time, contribute to weight gain.

What Can Be Done

• Set Screen Use Limits
  Parents and schools should establish clear boundaries on device usage.

• Encourage Regular Exercise
  Promote active routines and physical education in schools.

• Promote Balanced Meals
  Shift from on‑the‑go snacking to nutritious, well‑timed meals.

• Community Programs
  After‑school sports and active gaming sessions can counterbalance passive entertainment.

By addressing both technology use and lifestyle choices, Mexico can work toward reversing the upward trend in adolescent obesity.