An Evaluation of the Nutritional Health and Dietary Behaviors of Secondary School Students from Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Households

Abstract: This study investigates the nutritional health and dietary behaviors of secondary school students from socioeconomically disadvantaged households in Najaf governorate. Using a cross-sectional, mixed-methods design, data were collected from October 9, 2023, to April 28, 2024, through structured questionnaires, 24-hour dietary recalls, anthropometric measurements, and semi-structured interviews. A purposive sample of 96 students aged 12–18 from five public schools was selected based on high rates of subsidized meal recipients. The study instruments included a validated questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics and nutritional knowledge, dietary intake tools (24-hour recall and Food Frequency Questionnaire), and anthropometric indicators such as BMI and waist circumference. Results showed a significant association between low socioeconomic status and poor nutritional outcomes, including reduced intake of fruits and vegetables, increased consumption of ultra-processed foods, and higher rates of overweight and obesity. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 2024 and Microsoft Excel 2015, employing both descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and inferential statistics (Chi-square tests), with significance set at p < 0.05. Qualitative interviews provided further insights into the socioeconomic barriers influencing food choices. The findings highlight the urgent need for school-based nutritional interventions and comprehensive policy reforms to address disparities in adolescent health among low-income populations..