Progress in Physical Activity Surveillance, Research, and Policy in Mexico: The Global Observatory for Physical Activity

ABSTRACT Introduction Physical inactivity is a global concern, linked to over 5 million annual deaths and a significant burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). This study focuses on Mexico, where NCDs contribute to 80% of all deaths, reporting on the progress since 1950 in Mexico’s physical activity surveillance, research, and policy. Methods Data were from the Global Observatory for Physical Activity Country Cards and a systematic review of the physical activity (PA) and health literature between 1950 and 2019, which identified 227 articles from Mexico. Articles were categorized according to themes—1) surveillance, 2) correlates and determinants, 3) health consequences, 4) interventions, and 5) policy—and female participation in authorship was evaluated. Results Mexico has shown a positive trend in PA research contributions, particularly since 2010. Of all Mexican publications, 37.5% were on the health consequences of physical inactivity, and only 4.8% were on policy. The proportion of articles authored by female researchers reached 48% in the last decade, although female researchers were senior authors less often (33%). Almost half (41%) of the authors listed in the Mexican publications had non-Mexican affiliations. Regular PA surveillance in Mexico occurs through the National Health and Nutrition Survey. In terms of policy, physical activity guidelines are absent, and there is a need for a standalone PA national plan in Mexico. Conclusion Although the positive research trend and existence of regular surveillance are good, the development of standalone PA policies should be prioritized.