Social Determinants of Cardiovascular Health: Yes, They Matter—But What Can We Do to Address Them?

Awareness of how social determinants of health (SDoH) shape cardiovascular outcomes is increasing, yet evidence on effective interventions remains limited. This review examines the associations between Healthy People 2030 SDoH domains and cardiovascular health (CVH), defined by the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8 (LE8), and highlights interventions with potential to reduce disparities.

Adverse SDoH—including economic instability, limited education and healthcare access, neighborhood disadvantage, and low social support—are consistently linked to lower LE8 scores and higher CVH burden, especially in under-resourced communities. Promising interventions include produce prescriptions, culturally tailored education, community health worker integration, built environment enhancements, and peer support models. However, most studies target single determinants, involve short follow-up, or focus on limited populations, leaving gaps in scalability and equity impact.

Addressing SDoH is essential for improving LE8 behaviors and factors. Progress requires multilevel, equity-centered strategies that align clinical care, policy, and research, while expanding rigorous trials to guide sustainable, community-driven solutions.