The potential epidemiologic, clinical, and economic impact of requiring schools to offer Physical Education (PE) classes in Mexico City.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Many schools have been cutting physical education (PE) classes due to budget constraints, which raises the question of whether policymakers should require schools to offer PE classes. Evidence suggests that PE classes can help address rising physical inactivity and obesity prevalence. However, it would be helpful to determine if requiring PE is cost-effective.

Methods

We developed an agent-based model of youth in Mexico City and the impact of all schools offering PE classes on changes in weight, weight-associated health conditions and the corresponding direct and indirect costs over their lifetime.

Results

If schools offer PE without meeting guidelines and instead followed currently observed class length and time active during class, overweight and obesity

SUBMITTER: Ferguson MC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9075653 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature