Social Networks and Health Outcomes: Importance for Racial and Socioeconomic Disparities in Cardiovascular Outcomes

Purpose of Review A large body of research has indicated social network characteristics are associated with health and mortality. Additional literature suggests the structure and function of social networks differ by race and socioeconomic status. The current paper seeks to synthesize and further contextualize these two separate bodies of work, as well as illustrate potential mechanisms by which social networks may contribute to current disparities in cardiovascular disease outcomes. Recent Findings An increasing number of studies have examined the link between social networks and cardiovascular outcomes. Social isolation and loneliness are two network-based sources of risk for coronary heart disease and stroke. Social resource theory provides a framework for how network structure and function may differ among distinct population groups, and argues for more research regarding differential access to social drivers of health. While previous studies have often focused on lack of support or resources within networks, recent studies have also pointed to potentially negative effects of networks, including burden, which provide additional pathways through which networks affect health. Other mechanisms linking social networks with cardiovascular disease risk, including social influence for behaviors associated with ideal cardiovascular health, are discussed. Summary Examination of social network structure and function among diverse populations, including Black Americans and low socioeconomic status individuals, may elucidate potential sources of physiological and psychological distress, as well as sources of support, that are associated with cardiovascular disease outcomes. A richer understanding of these associations may offer solutions for alleviating systemic causes of cardiovascular disease disparities among high-risk populations.