Summary of workshop III: Working Group on Socieconomic and Sociocultural Influences

Abstract A multidisciplinary working group discussed the conceptual and methodologic issues involved in studying the role of socioeconomic and sociocultural influences in coronary heart disease (CHD) in blacks. Social status was defined as a multidimensional construct with sociostructural and personal, sociopsychological components. A nine-factor conceptual model was developed that affirmed the interplay of sociostructural factors, personal characteristics and behaviors, and health care system attitudes and practices as active contributors to CHD risk, morbidity, and mortality in blacks. Specific recommendations for future research on social status and CHD in blacks were made.