Cardiac rehabilitation in women

Sex and gender specific pitfalls and challenges in cardiac rehabilitation: a working hypothesis towards better inclusivity in cardiac rehabilitation programmes

Notwithstanding its acknowledged pivotal role for cardiovascular prevention, cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is still largely under prescribed, in almost 25% of patients owing an indication for. In addition, when considering differences concerning the two sexes, female individuals are underrepresented in CR programmes with lower referral rates, participation, and completion as compared to male counterpart. This picture becomes even more tangled with reference to gender, a complex socio-cultural construct characterized by four domains (gender identity, relation, role, and institutionalized gender). Indeed, each of them reveals several obstacles that considerably penalize CR adherence for different categories of people, especially those who are not identifiable with a non-binary gender. Aim of the present review is to identify the sex- (i.e. biological) and gender- (i.e. socio-cultural) specific obstacles to CR related to biological sex and sociocultural gender and then envision a likely viable solution through tailored treatments towards patients' well-being.

Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation for patients with coronary heart disease: a systematic review and evidence mapping study

INTRODUCTION

Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) plays a critical role in coronary heart disease (CHD) management. There is a heritage in the effect of exercise-based CR with different exercise programs or intervention settings. This study developed an evidence matrix that systematically assesses, organizes, and presents the available evidence regarding exercise-based CR in CHD management.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across six databases. Two reviewers screened the identified literature, extracted relevant data, and assessed the quality of the studies. An evidence-mapping framework was established to present the findings in a structured manner. Bubble charts were used to represent the included systematic reviews (SRs). The charts incorporated information, exercise prescriptions, outcome indicators, associated P values, research quality, and the number of original studies. A descriptive analysis summarized the types of CR, intervention settings, influential factors, and adverse events.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Sixty-two SRs were included in this analysis, focusing on six exercise types in addition to assessing major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), cost and rehabilitation outcomes. The most commonly studied exercise types were unspecified (28 studies, 45.2%) and aerobic (11 studies, 17.7%) exercises. All-cause mortality was the most frequently reported MACE outcome (22 studies). Rehabilitation outcomes primarily centered around changes in cardiac function (135 outcomes from 39 SRs). Only 8 (12.9%) studies were rated as "high quality." No significant adverse events were observed in the intervention group. Despite some variations among the included studies, most SRs demonstrated the benefits of exercise in improving one or more MACE or rehabilitation outcomes among CHD patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of high-quality evidence remains relatively low. Limited evidence is available regarding the effectiveness of specific exercise types and specific populations, necessitating further evaluation.

Differential associations of sex and age with changes in HRQoL during outpatient cardiac rehabilitation

INTRODUCTION

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) represent the world's leading cause of death. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a widely applied concept of patients' perceived health and is directly linked to CVD morbidity, mortality, and re-hospitalization rates. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) improves both cardiovascular outcomes and HRQoL. Regrettably, CR is still underutilized, especially in subgroups like women and elderly patients. The aim of our study was to investigate the predictive potential of sex and age on change of HRQoL throughout outpatient CR.

METHODS

497 patients of outpatient CR were retrospectively assessed from August 2015 to September 2019 at the University Hospital Zurich. A final sample of 153 individuals with full HRQoL data both at CR entry and discharge was analyzed. HRQoL was measured using the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) with its physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component scale. In two-factorial analyses of variance, we analyzed sex- and age-specific changes in HRQoL scores throughout CR, adjusting for psychosocial and clinical characteristics. Age was grouped into participants over and under the age of 65.

RESULTS

In both sexes, mean scores of physical HRQoL improved significantly during CR (p <.001), while mean scores of mental HRQoL improved significantly in men only (p =.003). Women under the age of 65 had significantly greater physical HRQoL improvements throughout CR, compared with men under 65 (p =.043) and women over 65 years of age (p =.014). Sex and age did not predict changes in mental HRQoL throughout CR.

CONCLUSIONS

Younger women in particular benefit from CR with regard to their physical HRQoL. Among older participants, women report equal improvements of physical HRQoL than men. Our results indicate that sex- and age-related aspects of HRQoL outcomes should be considered in CR.

Patients' Perceptions of Hybrid and Virtual-Only Care Models During the Cardiac Rehabilitation Patient Journey: A Qualitative Study

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic initially led to discontinuation of the "traditional" center-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) model. Virtual models emerged as an opportunity to deliver care, with many programs continuing to offer these models.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore patients' perceptions of virtual models of either hybrid (combining center-based and virtual) or virtual-only CR since the pandemic.

METHODS

Men and women who chose to participate in hybrid or virtual CR models between January 2022 and January 2023 were invited to attend 1 of 8 focus group sessions. Focus groups were conducted online until thematic saturation was reached. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients (48% female; 83% attending hybrid CR) participated in the study. Analysis revealed 12 overarching themes associated with the CR patient journey: pre-CR, namely, (1) importance of endorsement from healthcare providers and (2) need for education/communication while waiting for program initiation; during CR, namely, (3) preference for class composition/structure, (4) need to enhance peer support in the virtual environment, (5) convenience and concerns with virtual sessions, (6) necessity of on-site sessions, (7) safety of the exercise prescription, (8) requirement/obligation for allied health offerings, (9) satisfaction with virtual education, and (10) use of technology to facilitate CR participation; and post-CR, namely, (11) acknowledgment of program completion and (12) need for support/education after program graduation.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients require ongoing support from time of referral to beyond CR program completion. Physical, psychosocial, nutritional, and educational supports are needed. Perceptions expressed by patients related to the program model are modifiable, and strategies to address these perceptions should be explored.

Home Based Cardiac Rehabilitation Participation Among Patients With Heart Failure

INTRODUCTION

Patients with Heart Failure (HF) have significant morbidity and mortality. Home Based Cardiac Rehabilitation (HBCR) is a form of Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) which has been proven beneficial for the patients with cardiovascular disease; However, cardiovascular outcomes in patients with HF who was referred to HBCR is not known.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 188 patients with HF (HFrEF or heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and HFpEF or heart failure with preserved ejection fraction) referred to HBCR at Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) from November 2017 to March 2020. We used the outcomes of patients with HF who attended HBCR and compared with the outcomes of patients who did not attend HBCR (Non-HBCR) from 3 months after starting HBCR till 12 months. Primary outcome was composite of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular hospitalizations. Secondary outcomes were all-cause mortality, cardiovascular hospitalizations and all-cause hospitalization, separately. We used cox proportional methods to calculate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% CI. We adjusted for imbalanced characteristics at baseline: age, smoking, PCI and CABG status. In subgroup analysis, we compared HFrEF and HFpEF patients who have completed HBCR and compared differences of their outcomes (weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, HbA1C, 6 Minutes walking test, duke score and PHQ-9) pre- and post-HBCR.

RESULTS

Mean age of the patients was 72 year and 98% were male. Out of 188 patients total, 11 patients were excluded for the main analysis as their outcomes occurred within first 90 days of HBCR enrollment, 105/177 (59%) patients attended HBCR while 72/177 (41%) patients did not attend HBCR and 93/105 (89%) patients have completed HBCR. The primary outcome occurred in 14 patients (13.3%) in the HBCR group and 19 patients (26.4%) in the Non-HBCR group (adjusted HR=0.32, CI 0.15-0.68). There was no difference in cardiovascular hospitalization among two groups, however patients in HBCR group have lower all-cause hospitalizations and all-cause death, separately. After HBCR completion, all outcomes (weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, HbA1C, 6 Minutes walking test, duke score and PHQ-9) have improved in both HFrEF and HFpEF group.

CONCLUSION

Patients with HF who have completed HBCR have a lower risk of all-cause mortality, all cause hospitalization separately and lower risk of combined all-cause mortality and cardiovascular hospitalization. Patients with HFrEF and HFpEF have equal degree of improvement after completing HBCR when compared with each other. HBCR is an ideal opportunity for patients with HF who cannot attend center-based CR and also for patients with HFpEF since CR is not approved for those patients.

Stepped care versus center-based cardiopulmonary rehabilitation for older frail adults living in rural MA: Design of a feasibility randomized controlled trial

Background

Cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation programs are grossly underutilized, and participation is particularly low in rural regions.

Methods

We are conducting a 2-arm, randomized controlled feasibility trial. Eligible participants include older frail adults with cardiac or pulmonary disease living in a predominantly rural county in western Massachusetts. Participants are randomized 1:1 to treatment as usual or stepped care. Patients randomized to treatment as usual participate in twice weekly center-based rehabilitation sessions over eight weeks and are encouraged to exercise at home in between sessions. Patients randomized to the stepped-care arm are offered/enrolled in the center-based rehabilitation program followed by possible step up to three interventions based on prespecified non-response criteria: 1) Transportation-assisted center-based rehabilitation, 2) Home-based telerehabilitation, and 3) Community health worker-supported home-based telerehabilitation. The primary feasibility outcomes are average number of eligible patients randomized per month, baseline measure completion, proportion attending at least 70% of the prescribed sessions, average number of sessions attended in the stepped-care arm, and proportion in the stepped-care arm completing patient reported outcome measures. Each of these process indicators is evaluated by preset "Stop" and "Go" thresholds.

Conclusion

The proposed stepped-care model is an efficient, patient-centered, approach to expanding access to cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation. Meeting the "Go" thresholds for the prespecified process indicators will justify conducting a definitive full-scale randomized controlled trial to compare the effectiveness and value (cost-effectiveness) of stepped-care versus center-based rehabilitation in older frail adults living rural counties.

Intensive Cardiac Rehabilitation Attenuates the Gender Gap in Cardiac Rehabilitation Participation

INTRODUCTION

Traditional cardiac rehabilitation programs historically have had considerable gender gaps in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) outcomes. Intensive-Cardiac-Rehabilitation (ICR) has non-exercise components such as stress management, peer support and diet modification, in addition to exercise, which may reduce barriers to CR completion. However, there is a paucity of data in ICR outcomes based on gender.

METHODS

We conducted a nationwide retrospective cohort study of 15,613 patients enrolled in 46 Ornish-ICR programs across the US from January 2016 - December 2020 and compared ICR physical and psychological outcomes in women versus men. Primary endpoints were depression scores (CESD), health status (SF-36 physical and mental composite-scores) and exercise minutes per week.

RESULTS

Of 15,613 ICR participants who participated in the program, 6788 (44%) were women. ICR completion rates were 64.7% overall and nearly equal between men and women (63.3% women vs 65.9% men). There were a few small differences in outcomes after ICR completion: women had slightly more improvement in depression scores (women: -6.10 ± 8.79, 49.6% reduction vs. men: -4.92 ± 7.80, 46.4% reduction; P<0.01) and SF-36 physical (women: 5.95±6.86 vs men: 5.28±6.71, P<0.01) and SF-36 mental (women: 5.76±8.11 vs men: 4.60±7.33, P<0.01) composite scores than men. There was no significant difference in exercise-minutes per week between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

ICR attenuates the gender gap in cardiac rehabilitation completion. Further, of the completers, women achieved slightly higher depression and quality-of-life improvements compared to men. As such, ICR can be a good option to reduce gender-based differences in CR participation.

Sex disparities and dyslipidemic control in a coronary rehabilitation program

Lipid control is one of the most important secondary cardiovascular prevention targets. Although cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in both sexes, women are less likely to receive guideline-recommended secondary prevention medications. To compare sex disparities in dyslipidemia control in a secondary prevention population, we retrospectively analysed all patients who participated in a Coronary Rehabilitation Program (CRP) after an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) from January 2011 to October 2019. Of a total of 881 patients enrolled, mean age 55.0-year-old, 16.1% were female. At hospital admission, females and males had similar mean LDL-levels. Female patients received more high intensity therapy during follow-up (67.8% vs 53.9% at baseline, p = 0.015; 75.6% vs 59.0% after CRP, p = 0.003; and 79.8% vs 65.1% at 1-year-follow-up, p = 0.007). At the end of the CRP, male patients exhibit a better control of LDL [82.0 vs 75.6 mg/dL, t(597) = 2.4, p = 0.016)] with 12.8% vs 16.4% below 55 mg/dL and 29.8% vs 44.5% below 70 mg/dL (p = 0.008). At 1-year follow-up, both sexes exhibited similar LDL-control thanks to a worsening control of the male population (81.9 vs 80.6 mg/dL, t(540) = 0.52, p = 0.605). Only 13.3% of females had LDL below 55 mg/dL (vs 12.9%, p = 0.921) and 32.5% below 70 mg/dL (vs 37.0%, p = 0.432). This real-life study showed that guideline recommended LDL target is not achieved in the majority of patients. Unlike other reports, there were more women receiving more potent anti-dyslipidemic therapy. Nevertheless, women showed a poor control of LDL-concentration after three months of ACS and a similar control after 1-year.

Scoping 'sex' and 'gender' in rehabilitation: (mis)representations and effects

BACKGROUND

Researchers have highlighted a large-scale global unmet need for rehabilitation. While sex and gender have been shown to interact with each other and with other social and structural factors to influence health and wellbeing, less is known about how sex and gender shape rehabilitation participation and outcomes within health systems.

METHODS

Using an intersectional approach, we examine literature that explores the relationship between sex and/or gender and rehabilitation access, use, adherence, outcomes, and caregiving. Following a comprehensive search, 65 documents met the inclusion criteria for this scoping review of published literature. Articles were coded for rehabilitation-related themes and categorized by type of rehabilitation, setting, and age of participants, to explore how existing literature aligned with documented global rehabilitation needs. Responding to a common conflation of sex and gender in the existing literature and a frequent misrepresentation of sex and gender as binary, the researchers also developed a schema to determine whether existing literature accurately represented sex and gender.

RESULTS

The literature generally described worse rehabilitation access, use, adherence, and outcomes and a higher caregiving burden for conditions with rehabilitation needs among women than men. It also highlighted the interacting effects of social and structural factors like socioeconomic status, racial or ethnic identity, lack of referral, and inadequate insurance on rehabilitation participation and outcomes. However, existing literature on gender and rehabilitation has focused disproportionately on a few types of rehabilitation among adults in high-income country contexts and does not correspond with global geographic or condition-based rehabilitation needs. Furthermore, no articles were determined to have provided an apt depiction of sex and gender.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights a gap in global knowledge about the relationship between sex and/or gender and rehabilitation participation and outcomes within health systems. Future research should rely on social science and intersectional approaches to elucidate how gender and other social norms, roles, and structures influence a gender disparity in rehabilitation participation and outcomes. Health systems should prioritize person-centered, gender-responsive care, which involves delivering services that are responsive to the complex social norms, roles, and structures that intersect to shape gender inequitable rehabilitation participation and outcomes in diverse contexts.

Digitally enabled cardiac rehabilitation following coronary revascularization: results from a single centre feasibility study

Wearable activity monitors, together with smartphone-based health and fitness applications (apps), are becoming more accessible and their widespread use provides an additional opportunity for the recording of cardiovascular metrics in patients with cardiovascular disease. The use of selected metrics by cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programmes allows the facilitation of individualized and tailored positive lifestyle changes to patients and places the patient at the centre of their recovery programme. To investigate the role of such devices on outcomes with patients on a CR programme, a cohort/case–control study was conducted. Patients post-myocardial infarction who were treated with either percutaneous coronary intervention or surgical coronary revascularisation at a single centre were invited to use a physical activity monitor linked to a customized app at their initial assessment for the rehabilitation programme. Those who accepted were allocated to the treatment group. The control group was selected from a larger pool of 400 historical and concurrent patients. Propensity matching was used to associate each case with their closest control. The changes in self-reported physical activity were similar for both groups at the end of the CR programme (EOP). The digitally monitored group tended to achieve greater METS (metabolic equivalent of task - a measure of exercise intensity) at 12 weeks (P &lt; 0.059); however, no difference was observed in the overall change in METS at EOP (P &lt; 0.333). Although no difference was noted in diastolic blood pressure, a statistically significant drop in the systolic blood pressure in the digitally monitored group (P &lt; 0.004) was detected. In this study, the innovative combination of technology and face-to-face CR showed promising results and assisted the individualization of delivered content. This intervention could easily be replicated and expanded. Challenges are the recruitment of the elderly population, those who may be less engaged with or have less access to technology, and the underrepresentation of women in the study sample.

Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection and Evidence-Based Medicine

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a relatively newly diagnosed area, and evidence-based medicine (EBM) standards are emerging and currently include an aspirin, β blocker, clopidogrel, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin-receptor blocker for patients with hypertension, vascular abnormality imaging, and cardiac rehabilitation. Because SCAD is an uncommon condition, many providers are unfamiliar with EBM treatment standards which could affect the implementation of recommended treatment. This study documented the frequency of failure to meet EBM SCAD treatment standards and factors contributing to conformance failure. Patients who presented to a tertiary referral hospital from January 1, 2005, to July 6, 2020, were included. The electronic medical record was reviewed for EBM treatment. Patients who did not meet the criteria of EBM were contacted by phone for a phone interview. The study period included 118 patients with SCAD, 3 of whom (2.5%) died and were not eligible for this study. In the final cohort of 115 patients, the average age was 55 years, female gender (97%) and EBM standards were met in 30%. Of patients who participated in the phone interview, 38 (33%) reported frustration with SCAD misdiagnosis (39%), inadequate mental health resources (37%), and communication failure regarding the need for cardiologist follow-up (26%). Cardiac rehabilitation use was impacted by location, time of day, availability, and cost. The most common medication-limiting factor for β-blocker usage was fatigue (15%). Most (59%) patients did not undergo fibromuscular dysplasia imaging. In conclusion, in this 15-year SCAD study from a single tertiary care hospital SCAD registry, only 30% met the current EBM for SCAD. Unique solutions that are both patient-informed and evidence-driven are needed to achieve the best clinical outcomes.

A Social-Ecological Perspective of the Perceived Barriers and Facilitators to Virtual Education in Cardiac Rehabilitation: A MIXED-METHODS APPROACH

PURPOSE

This study explored the perceived barriers and facilitators to participation in patients who did and did not attend virtual cardiac rehabilitation (CR) education sessions.

METHODS

A mixed-methods approach was used. Virtual patient education was delivered during the coronavirus-19 pandemic. Phase 1 included a cross-sectional online survey completed by individuals who did and did not participate in these sessions. For phase 2, six virtual focus group sessions were conducted using the social-ecological framework to guide thematic analysis and interpretation of findings.

RESULTS

Overall, 106 online surveys were completed; 60 (57%) attended Cardiac College Learn Online (CCLO) sessions only, one (1%) Women with Heart Online (WwHO) only, 21 (20%) attended both, and 24 (22%) did not attend virtual sessions. Half of the participants who attended virtual sessions viewed between one and four sessions. Most participants were from Canada (95%) and included the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute/Toronto Western Hospital centers (76%). Focus group findings revealed six overarching themes: Intrapersonal (mixed emotions/feelings; personal learning preferences); Interpersonal (desire for warmth of human contact and interaction); Institutional (the importance of external endorsement of sessions); and Environmental (technology; perceived facilitators and barriers).

CONCLUSION

These findings highlight the unprecedented situation that patients and CR programs are facing during the pandemic. Virtual patient education may be more accessible, convenient, and responsive to the complex needs of these CR participants.

Women Have Lower Mortality Than Men After Attending a Long-Term Medically Supervised Exercise Program

PURPOSE

Medically supervised exercise programs (MSEPs) are equally recommended for men and women with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Aware of the lower CVD mortality in women, we hypothesized that among patients attending a MSEP, women would also have better survival.

METHODS

Data from men and women, who were enrolled in a MSEP between 1994 and 2018, were retrospectively analyzed. Sessions included aerobic, resistance, flexibility and balance exercises, and cardiopulmonary exercise test was performed. Date and underlying cause of death were obtained. Kaplan-Meier methods and Cox proportional hazards regression were used for survival analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 2236 participants (66% men, age range 33-85 yr) attended a median of 52 (18, 172) exercise sessions, and 23% died during 11 (6, 16) yr of follow-up. In both sexes, CVD was the leading cause of death (39%). Overall, women had a more favorable clinical profile and a longer survival compared to men (HR = 0.71: 95% CI, 0.58-0.85; P < .01). When considering those with coronary artery disease and similar clinical profile, although women had a lower percentage of sex- and age-predicted maximal oxygen uptake at baseline than men (58 vs 78%; P < .01), after adjusting for age, women still had a better long-term survival (HR = 0.68: 95% CI, 0.49-0.93; P = .02).

CONCLUSION

Survival after attendance to a long-term MSEP was better among women, despite lower baseline cardiorespiratory fitness. Future studies should address whether men and women would similarly benefit when participating in an MSEP.

Cardiac rehabilitation in women, challenges and opportunities

Cardiac rehabilitation(CR) has known proven benefits in reducing mortality related to cardiovascular disease (CVD), improving quality of life (QoL), and preventing CVD-related readmissions. Despite these known benefits, CR remains underutilized among women relative to men. Disparities exist at the level of referral, enrollment, and program completion. Much is left to be understood regarding the utility of CR in female-predominant CVD such as postpartum cardiomyopathy and Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection. This review identifies the benefits of CR for specific populations of women and elucidates on the barriers to CR. We also describe current recommendations to overcome barriers to CR in women.

Barriers and facilitators to virtual education in cardiac rehabilitation: a systematic review of qualitative studies

Background

Due to restrictions imposed by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic much attention has been given to virtual education in cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Despite growing evidence that virtual education is effective in teaching patients how to better self-manage their conditions, there is very limited evidence on barriers and facilitators of CR patients in the virtual world.

Aims

To identify barriers and facilitators to virtual education participation and learning in CR.

Methods

A systematic review of peer-reviewed literature was conducted. Medline, Embase, Emcare, CINAHL, PubMed, and APA PsycInfo were searched from inception through April 2021. Following the PRISMA checklist, only qualitative studies were considered. Theoretical domains framework (TDF) was used to guide thematic analysis. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program was used to assess the quality of the studies.

Results

Out of 6662 initial citations, 12 qualitative studies were included (58% ‘high’ quality). A total of five major barriers and facilitators were identified under the determinants of TDF. The most common facilitator was accessibility, followed by empowerment, technology, and social support. Format of the delivered material was the most common barrier. Technology and social support also emerged as barriers.

Conclusion

This is the first systematic review, to our knowledge, to provide a synthesis of qualitative studies that identify barriers and facilitators to virtual education in CR. Cardiac rehabilitation patients face multiple barriers to virtual education participation and learning. While 12 qualitative studies were found, future research should aim to identify these aspects in low-income countries, as well as during the pandemic, and methods of overcoming the barriers described.

Cardiovascular Outcomes of Patients Referred to Home Based Cardiac Rehabilitation

Background

Home Based Cardiac Rehabilitation (HBCR) has been considered a reasonable alternative to Center-based Cardiac Rehabilitation (CBCR) in patients with established cardiovascular disease, especially in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic. However, the long-term cardiovascular outcomes of patients referred to HBCR remains unknown.

Objectives

To compare outcomes of patients who were referred and attended HBCR vs patients referred but did not attend HBCR (Non-HBCR).

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of 269 patients referred to HBCR at Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center (PVAMC). From November 2017 to March 2020, 427 patients were eligible and referred for Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) at PVAMC. Of total patients, 158 patients were referred to CBCR and 269 patients to HBCR based on patient and/or clinician preference. The analysis of outcomes was focused on HBCR patients. We compared outcomes of patients who were referred and attended HBCR vs patients referred but did not attend HBCR (Non-HBCR) from 3 to 12 months of the referral date. HBCR consisted of face-to-face entry exam with exercise prescription, weekly phone calls for education and exercise monitoring, with adjustments where applicable, for 12-weeks and an exit exam. Primary outcome was composite of all-cause mortality and hospitalizations. Secondary outcomes were all-cause hospitalization, all-cause mortality and cardiovascular hospitalizations, separately. We used cox proportional methods to calculate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% CI. We adjusted for imbalanced characteristics at baseline: smoking, left ventricular ejection fraction and CABG status.

Results

A total of 269 patients (mean age: 72, 98% Male) were referred to HBCR, however, only 157 (58%) patients attended HBCR. The primary outcome occurred in 30 patients (19.1%) in the HBCR group and 30 patients (30%) in the Non-HBCR group (adjusted HR=0.56, CI 0.33-0.95, P=.03). All-cause mortality occurred in 6.4% of patients in the HBCR group and 13% patients in the Non-HBCR group 3 to 12 months after HBCR referral (adjusted HR=0.43, CI 0.18-1.0, P= .05). There was no difference in cardiovascular hospitalizations (HBCR: 5.7% vs Non-HBCR: 10%, adjusted HR 0.57, CI 0.22-1.4, P= .23) or all cause hospitalizations at 3 to 12 months between the groups (HBCR: 12.7% vs Non-HBCR: 21%, adjusted HR 0.53, CI 0.28-1.01, P= .05).

Conclusion

Completion of HBCR among referred patients was associated with a lower risk of the combined all-cause mortality and all-cause hospitalizations up to 12 months. Based on the outcomes, HBCR is a reasonable option that can improve access to CR for patients who are not candidates of or cannot attend CBCR. Randomized-controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Sex-related differences in ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction

The epidemiology, clinical features and outcome of myocardial infarction (MI) display significant differences between men and women. Prominent sex differences have also been suggested in left ventricular (LV) remodeling after MI. Ventricular remodeling refers to a deterioration of LV geometry and function often leading to heart failure (HF) development and an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Women have a lower propensity to the acquisition of a spherical geometry and LV dysfunction. These differences can be attributed at least partially to a lower frequency of transmural infarction and smaller areas of microvascular obstruction in women, as well as to a less prominent activation of neuroendocrine systems and apoptotic, inflammatory and profibrotic pathways in women. Estrogens might play a role in this difference, which could partially persist even after the menopause because of a persisting intramyocardial synthesis of estrogens in women. Conversely, androgens may exert a detrimental influence. Future studies should better clarify sex differences in the predictors, clinical correlates, prognostic impact and disease mechanisms of remodeling, as well as the existence of sex-specific therapeutic targets. This research effort should hopefully allow to optimize the treatment of MI during the acute and post-acute phase, possibly through different therapeutic strategies in men and women, with the goal of reducing the risk of HF development and improving patient outcome.

Exercise capacity improvement after cardiac rehabilitation following myocardial infarction and its association with long-term cardiovascular events

AIMS 

Cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) improves aerobic capacity and quality of life in patients after myocardial infarction (MI). The aim was to examine the associations between exercise capacity improvement and different clinically relevant cardiovascular events.

METHODS AND RESULTS 

This was a registry-based study of post-MI patients, referred to CR. All patients were submitted to exercise testing before and after CR (36 sessions, 2-3 times/week, and combined exercise). Patients were divided into two groups, based on the difference in exercise capacity before and after the CR programme with the cut-off of two metabolic equivalents (METs) improvement. We assessed the correlation between the extent of exercise capacity improvement and the following cardiovascular events: major adverse cardiac events (MACE), cardiovascular-related hospitalizations, and unplanned coronary angiography. A total of 499 patients were included (mean age 56 ± 10 years, 20% women). Both groups significantly improved in terms of exercise capacity, natriuretic peptide levels, resting heart rate, and resting diastolic pressure; however, lipid status significantly improved only in patients with ≥2 METs difference in exercise capacity. A total of 13.4% patients suffered MACE (median follow-up 858 days); 21.8% were hospitalized for cardiovascular reasons (median follow-up 791 days); and 19.8% had at least one unplanned coronary angiography (median follow-up 791 days). Exercise capacity improvement of ≥2 METs was associated with lower rates of MACE, cardiovascular hospitalizations, and unplanned coronary angiography in all examined univariate and multivariate models.

CONCLUSION 

This study has shown that exercise improvement of ≥2 METs is associated with a significant decrease in MACE, cardiac hospitalizations, and unplanned coronary angiography.

Self-perceived cognitive status and cognitive challenges associated with cardiac rehabilitation management: experiences of elderly myocardial infarction patients

PURPOSE

The study aimed to explore the self-perceived cognitive status and cognitive challenges associated with lifestyle changes in cardiac rehabilitation among elderly myocardial infarction (MI) patients (≥65 years). Further, the study explored coping strategies developed to manage these challenges in the everyday life.

METHODS

Nine patients were included in the study. Data were collected by telephone or in person, between 6 and 12 weeks post MI, using semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed inductively, using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Four major themes were identified, highlighting elderly MI patients' experiences of their cognitive status and cardiac rehabilitation management: (1) A change in cognition over time, (2) Situating the MI within a challenging and changing life context, (3) Navigating the hurdles of cardiac rehabilitation, and (4) Being seen within the healthcare system.

CONCLUSION

Elderly MI patients are situated in a complex life context, dealing with a transition to retirement, multiple health issues and age-related cognitive decline. In this context, the MI experience is marginalised, and cognitive decline normalized. By adopting individually tailored interventions and improving healthcare provider continuity and accessibility, cognitive challenges associated with cardiac rehabilitation could be easier to overcome.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONSelf-perceived cognitive impairment, in particular regarding memory, seems fairly common among elderly MI patients and should likely be identified prior to hospital discharge in order to optimize the prospects of self-care.There seems to exist an unmet need to implement the practice of individually adapted education and information further, in accordance with current recommendations for elderly cardiac patients.The overall health and cognitive status, social network and the objective living conditions (e.g., distance from service and housing) should be taken into account when planning the patient's cardiac rehabilitation management.Healthcare providers likely need to strengthen the continuity of care and increase its accessibility for elderly MI patients, in particular following the transfer from hospital care to local health centres.

Women's participation in stress management interventions for chronic heart failure: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Stress management interventions (SMIs) can alleviate the psychosocial stress often experienced by women with heart failure. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to summarize women's participation rates, and predictors of participation, in SMIs for the management of psychosocial distress in women with chronic HF. Studies were retrieved from bibliographic databases, reference sections of relevant papers, and research registries. Included studies (a) evaluated a SMI approach for the management of chronic HF, (b) sampled chronic HF patients, and (c) used a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design. Independent coders extracted the relevant data. Thirty-five RCTs met inclusion criteria (N = 3,649; mean age = 63.5 ± 7.0 years). All studies sampled both men and women; the mean proportion of women who participated in the trials was 38.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 34.5-43.4; I² = 82.4, 95% CI = 81.0-83.6). Women's participation rates were higher in studies sampling more HF patients with hypertension (B = 1.01, SE = 0.45, P = .046) but fewer HF patients prescribed beta blockers (B = -1.10, SE = 0.33, P = .006), F (2,12) = 6.27, P = 0.014, adjusted R² = 61%. SMIs may offer women a complementary or integrative approach to standard treatment to help manage the psychological distress associated with HF. Future research should explore the potential benefits of offering stress management approaches to women as part of comprehensive HF care.

Regional Variability in the Access to Cardiac Rehabilitation in Poland

Equitable access to cardiological rehabilitation services is one of the important elements in the effectiveness of the treatment of cardiovascular diseases as cardiological rehabilitation is an important part of circulatory system disease prevention and treatment. However, in many countries among others, Poland suffers from the underutilization of cardiac rehabilitation services. Cardiovascular diseases are the worldwide number one cause of mortality, morbidity, and disability and are responsible for the substantial increase in health care costs. Thus, the aim of the research was the analysis of geographical accessibility to cardiac rehabilitation services in Poland. Perkal's method was employed in this research. The conducted research allowed to recognize the regional variation, but also made it possible to classify Polish voivodeships in terms of the level of availability achieved. This enables the identification of voivodeships that provide a good, or even very good, access to cardiology rehabilitation services and those characterized by low, or very low access. It was found that there was a slight regional variability in the access to cardiological rehabilitation services. However, the sufficient development of a rehabilitation infrastructure has been also recognized.

Long-term Cardiac Maintenance Programming: A SINGLE-SITE ANALYSIS OF MORE THAN 200 PARTICIPANTS

PURPOSE

Greater than 65% of all cardiac mortality is related to coronary artery disease (CAD). Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) aims to reduce cardiovascular risk and number of hospital readmissions. Cardiac maintenance programs (CMPs) are designed to sustain or improve health after completing early CR. Although CMPs are supported by most national health guidelines, few long-term studies on these diverse programs have been performed.

METHODS

This was a retrospective repeated-measures analysis with case-controlled subanalysis. Within-subject differences for CMP participants were examined between enrollment and last clinical visit. Assessments included medical history, anthropometry, blood analysis, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. A subset of 20 CMP participants were compared with 20 patients with CAD who chose not to participate in CMP, matched for age, sex, and follow-up duration.

RESULTS

A total of 207 patients (60 ± 9 yr, 16% female) were included for the primary analyses. Average follow-up was 6.3 ± 4.8 yr (range 4-20 yr). CMP participants reduced peak workload (1.76 ± 0.56 to 1.60 ± 0.58 W/kg; P < .001) and aerobic capacity (26.1 ± 6.2 to 24.6 ± 7.1 mL/kg/min; P = .003). High-density lipoprotein-cholesterol increased significantly (48 ± 12 to 51 ± 14 mg/dL; P < .001), whereas all other metabolic risk factors remained unaffected. Matched controls had higher functional capacity (2.35 ± 0.81 vs 1.56 ± 0.52 W/kg; P < .001) and lower body mass index (25.3 ± 3.6 vs 28.6 ± 3.9 kg/m2) at baseline, but no significant differences with respect to long-term efficacy were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term participation in CMP did not result in maintaining functional capacity or cardiovascular risk profile in patients with CAD. However, compared with matched nonparticipants, CMP participants (are more deconditioned at baseline) but do not seem to deteriorate as quickly.

Gender Differences in Postoperative Outcomes After Cardiac Surgery

Women presenting for cardiac surgery tend to be older and have hypertension, diabetes, and overweight or underweight body mass index than men. Despite improvements in surgical techniques and medications, women have increased risk for morbidity and mortality after multiple types of cardiac surgery. Women presenting for transcatheter aortic valve replacement are older and frailer than men, and have increased risk of intraoperative complications, but lower mortality at mid- and long-term ranges compared with men. Adherence to recovery and rehabilitation from cardiac surgery is challenging for women. Solutions should focus on increased family support, and use of group exercise and activities.

Sex differences in heart failure

The overall lifetime risk of heart failure (HF) is similar between men and women, however, there are marked sex differences in the landscape of this condition that are both important and under-recognized. Men are predisposed to HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), whereas women predominate in HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Sex differences are also notable in the penetrance of genetic cardiomyopathies, risk factors, e.g. breast cancer which may be associated with cancer treatment-induced cardiomyopathy, as well as sex-specific conditions such as peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM). This review outlines the key sex differences with respect to clinical characteristics, pathophysiology, and therapeutic responses to HF treatments. Finally, we address important differences in the prognosis of HF. A central hypothesis is that the higher risk of HFrEF in men compared to women may be attributable to their predisposition to macrovascular coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction, whereas coronary microvascular dysfunction/endothelial inflammation has been postulated to play a key role in HFpEF and maybe the common link among HF syndromes that women are predisposed to Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, PPCM, and breast cancer radiotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy. Under-pinning current sex disparities in HF, there is a paucity of women recruited to HF clinical trials (20–25% of cohorts) and thus treatment guidelines are predominantly based on male-derived data. Large gaps in knowledge exist in sex-specific mechanisms, optimal drug doses for women and sex-specific criteria for device therapy.