Social, psychological, and cultural dimensions of cardiovascular health among Hispanic/Latino adults: A narrative review of findings from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos.

Objectives: The landmark Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) enrolled N = 16,415 Hispanic/Latino adults (2008-2011) who have been followed for 12-16 years, through 2024. HCHS/SOL identified high rates of cardiovascular risk factors in the target population, with significant variability by Hispanic/Latino heritage (Central American, Cuban, Dominican, Mexican, Puerto Rican, and South American). In the current study, we reviewed the evidence from HCHS/SOL concerning the social, psychological, and cultural dimensions of cardiovascular health (CVH).

Method: Through a conceptual framework blending elements of the Reserve Capacity Model and Lifespan Biopsychosocial Model, we reviewed findings from 53 studies that have examined associations of broad socioeconomic (e.g., income) and immigration (e.g., place of birth) context, cognitive-emotional factors (e.g., depression symptoms), stress/adversity (e.g., chronic stress burden, discrimination stress), interpersonal (e.g., social support) and intrapersonal (e.g., optimism) resources, and cultural beliefs and values (e.g., fatalism, religiosity) with CVH and cardiovascular disease in HCHS/SOL.

Results: The studies reveal a consistent pattern of associations of adverse social drivers of health, such as low income and high chronic stress, as well as U.S. birth or more years living in the United States, and of greater depression and anxiety symptoms with worse CVH. Studies concerning protective interpersonal resources have produced variable results, and few studies have examined intrapersonal resources or cultural beliefs and values. Most studies have applied a cross-sectional design.

Conclusions: We conclude by discussing additional research needed to advance science regarding the social, psychological, and cultural dimensions of CVH among Hispanics/Latinos. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).