Applying an intersectional lens to alcohol inequities: A conceptual framework

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Equity Research
• Social Determinants of Health

Background:

• Existing research highlights significant inequities in alcohol consumption, harms, and mortality.
• These inequities stem from multifaceted factors, necessitating comprehensive analytical approaches.
• Conceptual frameworks like the NIMHD Research Framework guide research on health disparities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt the NIMHD Research Framework for a specific focus on alcohol-related inequities.
• To integrate core principles of intersectionality into a framework addressing alcohol disparities.
• To develop a tool for understanding and addressing the complex interplay of factors influencing alcohol inequities.

Main Methods:

• Development of the Intersectional Alcohol Inequities Framework (IAIF) through expert collaboration.
• Utilizing a workshop approach focused on intersectional frameworks and alcohol inequities in the US.
• Employing thematic analysis and literature review to refine the IAIF, ensuring saturation.

Main Results:

• The IAIF introduces novel elements: a 'power' domain, a 'historical' level, and emphasis on relationality.
• A 'digital environment' domain was incorporated to reflect contemporary social contexts.
• Examples demonstrating the IAIF's relevance to alcohol inequities and its adaptability were provided.

Conclusions:

• The IAIF serves as a tool for critical dialogue on intersecting factors influencing alcohol-related outcomes.
• It supports researchers in identifying research needs and policy gaps.
• The framework can inform the design of new policies, interventions, and patient management strategies.