Factors influencing dietary inequalities among adolescents in Madrid and Bilbao: a qualitative research project

Objective: To describe the design and methodology of a qualitative study to explore the main factors influencing dietary inequalities in adolescents in Madrid and Bilbao, Spain. Method: The study area included six neighborhoods (three in each city) of different socioeconomic status (SES): low, medium, and high. We sampled 12 secondary schools (six in each city: two per socioeconomic level). Our methodology comprised: 1) developing an ad hoc index to classify all neighborhoods according to their SES; 2) selecting the study area and sample; 3) conducting semi-structured interviews (n = 36) and focus groups (n = 24). Grounded theory and phenomenological analysis will be employed in data analysis. Initially, we found factors influencing in adolescents' diet such as gender, family environment, and SES. Conclusions: Systematizing the selection of neighborhoods and secondary schools, along with using appropriate methods, could serve as a foundation for future studies on health inequalities among ado-lescents.& COPY; 2023 SESPAS. Published by Elsevier Espan & SIM;a, S.L.U. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Automated summary

This study aims to explore the main factors influencing dietary inequalities in adolescents in Madrid and Bilbao, Spain. The study includes six neighborhoods (three in each city) of different socioeconomic status (SES) and uses qualitative methods such as semi-structured interviews and focus groups. Initial findings suggest that factors such as gender, family environment, and SES have an impact on adolescents' diet. The systematic selection of neighborhoods and secondary schools, along with appropriate methodologies, could benefit future research on health inequalities among adolescents.