Racism, Sexism, and Social Class: Implications for Studies of Health, Disease, and Well-being

Summarizes & critiques the predominant methods employed by US epidemiologists to study how the social relations of race, gender, & social class influence health. Discussed are the historical background, theoretical assumptions, research strategies, & limitations of investigations regarding: race, racism, & health; gender, sexism, & health; & social class & health. Most studies have sought to explain racial/ethnic differences in disease solely in economic terms, without considering important noneconomic aspects of racism (eg, stress resulting from discrimination). Relatively few studies have evaluated the effects of sexism on women's health, & much of the research on social class & health is marred by the use of eclectic & often inadequate measures. An emerging alternative paradigm regarding exposure, susceptability, & the social production of disease is outlined, & summarized are current research efforts examining the links between health &: racial & gender discrimination; ethnic diversity among people of color; differences among women in relation to race/ethnicity & social class; & alternative measures of social class (especially for women), including contextual analyses that employ individual, household, & neighborhood measures of social class. Research strategies for investigations concerning social inequalities in health are recommended. 5 Tables, 2 Figures, 1 Appendix, 495 References. Modified AA