Socioeconomic and psychosocial factors exert influence on health as well as the development, the progression and the prevention of diseases. Social factors regarding cardiovascular diseases have been widely researched. Whilst characteristics of classic type A behaviour increase cardiovascular risk among men, characteristics of type B behaviour represent a protective value, especially among women. Depression--a disease that is particularly prevalent among women and is associated with socioeconomic factors--negatively influences the development of cardiovascular diseases, triggers cardiovascular events and influences rehabilitation. Lifestyle factors, which are positively or negatively correlated with cardiovascular disease, show a gender-specific prevalence and are related to psychosocial factors. More women than men report healthy nutrition, whereas more men report partaking in physical exercise. Obesity is--depending on the occupational group and the social level--more prevalent among women compared to men.