Understanding health from a social perspective is important if appropriate interventions and policies are to be developed to eliminate disparity. Epidemiological data show Blacks are disproportionately affected by most illnesses. Social factors such as race and class have significantly contributed to this disparity. This article addresses these social factors using Durkheim’s sociological theory along with conflict and micro-interaction social theories. Each theory is discussed along with its social implications. Nurses can play a significant role in helping the government achieve the goals of Healthy People 2010. To do this, they must address racial and class disparities in educational curricula, practice, and research.
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