Patients of low socioeconomic status (SES) with cardiovascular disease are a highly vulnerable, but often under-served, population. In high income countries in particular, these individuals develop cardiovascular disease younger, have more risk factors, and are less likely to benefit from treatment than are patients of higher socioeconomic status. In this Review, Clark et al. examine how socioeconomic status is linked to adverse cardiovascular outcomes and what clinicians can do to address inequalities.
- Alexander M. Clark
- Marie DesMeules
- Andy Wielgosz