Randomized Trial of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction in Cardiac Patients Eligible for Cardiac Rehabilitation

The psychological well-being index and quality of life after a cardiac rehabilitation program based on aerobic training and psychosocial support

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the physical and psychological benefits of an alternative cardiac rehabilitation program based on therapeutic groups during physical exercise sessions and to compare the results with those of a conventional cardiac rehabilitation program.

METHOD

The sample included 112 patients from the cardiac rehabilitation unit of a medical center, 91.1 % of whom were male. The control group consisted of 47 subjects, with a mean age of 57.89 ± 12.30 and the experimental group consisted of 65 subjects, with a mean age of M = 58.38 ± 9.86. Quality of life, psychological well-being, health-related quality of life, body mass index, blood pressure, abdominal circumference and resting heart rate were measured before starting and at the end of the cardiac rehabilitation program.

RESULTS

The experimental group improved significantly more than the control group in body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, abdominal circumference, and resting heart rate (p value < 0.005). In addition, the experimental group had significantly greater improvements in quality of life, psychological well-being, and health-related quality of life than the control group (p-value < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A cardiac rehabilitation program based on simultaneous aerobic training and psychosocial support improved the physical function, health-related quality of life and well-being.

Psychological interventions for depression and anxiety in patients with coronary heart disease, heart failure or atrial fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Depression and anxiety occur frequently (with reported prevalence rates of around 40%) in individuals with coronary heart disease (CHD), heart failure (HF) or atrial fibrillation (AF) and are associated with a poor prognosis, such as decreased health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and increased morbidity and mortality. Psychological interventions are developed and delivered by psychologists or specifically trained healthcare workers and commonly include cognitive behavioural therapies and mindfulness-based stress reduction. They have been shown to reduce depression and anxiety in the general population, though the exact mechanism of action is not well understood. Further, their effects on psychological and clinical outcomes in patients with CHD, HF or AF are unclear.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of psychological interventions (alone, or with cardiac rehabilitation or pharmacotherapy, or both) in adults who have a diagnosis of CHD, HF or AF, compared to no psychological intervention, on psychological and clinical outcomes.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL databases from 2009 to July 2022. We also searched three clinical trials registers in September 2020, and checked the reference lists of included studies. No language restrictions were applied.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing psychological interventions with no psychological intervention for a minimum of six months follow-up in adults aged over 18 years with a clinical diagnosis of CHD, HF or AF, with or without depression or anxiety. Studies had to report on either depression or anxiety or both.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methods. Our primary outcomes were depression and anxiety, and our secondary outcomes of interest were HRQoL mental and physical components, all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). We used GRADE to assess the certainty of evidence for each outcome.

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty-one studies (2591 participants) met our inclusion criteria. Sixteen studies included people with CHD, five with HF and none with AF. Study sample sizes ranged from 29 to 430. Twenty and 17 studies reported the primary outcomes of depression and anxiety, respectively. Despite the high heterogeneity and variation, we decided to pool the studies using a random-effects model, recognising that the model does not eliminate heterogeneity and findings should be interpreted cautiously. We found that psychological interventions probably have a moderate effect on reducing depression (standardised mean difference (SMD) -0.36, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.65 to -0.06; 20 studies, 2531 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) and anxiety (SMD -0.57, 95% CI -0.96 to -0.18; 17 studies, 2235 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), compared to no psychological intervention. Psychological interventions may have little to no effect on HRQoL physical component summary scores (PCS) (SMD 0.48, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.98; 12 studies, 1454 participants; low-certainty evidence), but may have a moderate effect on improving HRQoL mental component summary scores (MCS) (SMD 0.63, 95% CI 0.01 to 1.26; 12 studies, 1454 participants; low-certainty evidence), compared to no psychological intervention. Psychological interventions probably have little to no effect on all-cause mortality (risk ratio (RR) 0.81, 95% CI 0.39 to 1.69; 3 studies, 615 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) and may have little to no effect on MACE (RR 1.22, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.92; 4 studies, 450 participants; low-certainty evidence), compared to no psychological intervention.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence suggests that psychological interventions for depression and anxiety probably result in a moderate reduction in depression and anxiety and may result in a moderate improvement in HRQoL MCS, compared to no intervention. However, they may have little to no effect on HRQoL PCS and MACE, and probably do not reduce mortality (all-cause) in adults who have a diagnosis of CHD or HF, compared with no psychological intervention. There was moderate to substantial heterogeneity identified across studies. Thus, evidence of treatment effects on these outcomes warrants careful interpretation. As there were no studies of psychological interventions for patients with AF included in our review, this is a gap that needs to be addressed in future studies, particularly in view of the rapid growth of research on management of AF. Studies investigating cost-effectiveness, return to work and cardiovascular morbidity (revascularisation) are also needed to better understand the benefits of psychological interventions in populations with heart disease.

Effect of Meditation, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, and Relaxation Techniques as Mind-Body Medicine Practices to Reduce Blood Pressure in Cardiac Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Elevated blood pressure is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Available evidence on mind-body medicine (MBM) techniques on blood pressure is inconclusive and provides conflicting results. The objective of the current systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the effect of MBM techniques on blood pressure in patients with cardiovascular disease. Randomized control trials (RCTs) done between the years 2000 and 2020 on cardiovascular disease, using MBM techniques such as meditation, mindfulness-based stress reduction and relaxation techniques were searched through electronic databases such as PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health (CINAHL), EMBASE and Cochrane Library. Three authors independently performed article selection, data extraction and validation. Meta-analysis was performed using a random effect model and standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) estimated for the effect size. Fifteen RCTs with 927 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Heterogeneity among the studies was very high for all analyses (I2>94%). For studies comparing systolic blood pressure, MBM interventions show a significant (p=0.01) effect when compared to conventional treatment, an overall estimated effect size of SMD - 0.78 (95% CI: -1.36, -0.20). For studies comparing the diastolic blood pressure, MBM intervention did not show any significant effect when compared to the conventional treatment, an overall effect size of SMD -0.26 (95% CI: -0.91, 0.39). The findings of the meta-analysis suggest that MBM interventions may improve systolic blood pressure alone in patients with cardiac diseases. With high heterogeneity and low quality of the included studies, more robust evidence is required before suggesting MBM as an effective treatment modality for reducing blood pressure in cardiovascular diseases.

Meditation for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease

BACKGROUND

Interventions incorporating meditation to address stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve self-management, are becoming popular for many health conditions. Stress is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and clusters with other modifiable behavioural risk factors, such as smoking. Meditation may therefore be a useful CVD prevention strategy.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effectiveness of meditation, primarily mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) and transcendental meditation (TM), for the primary and secondary prevention of CVD.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, three other databases, and two trials registers on 14 November 2021, together with reference checking, citation searching, and contact with study authors to identify additional studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of 12 weeks or more in adults at high risk of CVD and those with established CVD. We explored four comparisons: MBIs versus active comparators (alternative interventions); MBIs versus non-active comparators (no intervention, wait list, usual care); TM versus active comparators; TM versus non-active comparators.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methods. Our primary outcomes were CVD clinical events (e.g. cardiovascular mortality), blood pressure, measures of psychological distress and well-being, and adverse events. Secondary outcomes included other CVD risk factors (e.g. blood lipid levels), quality of life, and coping abilities. We used GRADE to assess the certainty of evidence.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 81 RCTs (6971 participants), with most studies at unclear risk of bias. MBIs versus active comparators (29 RCTs, 2883 participants) Systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure were reported in six trials (388 participants) where heterogeneity was considerable (SBP: MD -6.08 mmHg, 95% CI -12.79 to 0.63, I2 = 88%; DBP: MD -5.18 mmHg, 95% CI -10.65 to 0.29, I2 = 91%; both outcomes based on low-certainty evidence). There was little or no effect of MBIs on anxiety (SMD -0.06 units, 95% CI -0.25 to 0.13; I2 = 0%; 9 trials, 438 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), or depression (SMD 0.08 units, 95% CI -0.08 to 0.24; I2 = 0%; 11 trials, 595 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Perceived stress was reduced with MBIs (SMD -0.24 units, 95% CI -0.45 to -0.03; I2 = 0%; P = 0.03; 6 trials, 357 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). There was little to no effect on well-being (SMD -0.18 units, 95% CI -0.67 to 0.32; 1 trial, 63 participants; low-certainty evidence). There was little to no effect on smoking cessation (RR 1.45, 95% CI 0.78 to 2.68; I2 = 79%; 6 trials, 1087 participants; low-certainty evidence). None of the trials reported CVD clinical events or adverse events. MBIs versus non-active comparators (38 RCTs, 2905 participants) Clinical events were reported in one trial (110 participants), providing very low-certainty evidence (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.37 to 2.42). SBP and DBP were reduced in nine trials (379 participants) but heterogeneity was substantial (SBP: MD -6.62 mmHg, 95% CI -13.15 to -0.1, I2 = 87%; DBP: MD -3.35 mmHg, 95% CI -5.86 to -0.85, I2 = 61%; both outcomes based on low-certainty evidence). There was low-certainty evidence of reductions in anxiety (SMD -0.78 units, 95% CI -1.09 to -0.41; I2 = 61%; 9 trials, 533 participants; low-certainty evidence), depression (SMD -0.66 units, 95% CI -0.91 to -0.41; I2 = 67%; 15 trials, 912 participants; low-certainty evidence) and perceived stress (SMD -0.59 units, 95% CI -0.89 to -0.29; I2 = 70%; 11 trials, 708 participants; low-certainty evidence) but heterogeneity was substantial. Well-being increased (SMD 0.5 units, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.91; I2 = 47%; 2 trials, 198 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). There was little to no effect on smoking cessation (RR 1.36, 95% CI 0.86 to 2.13; I2 = 0%; 2 trials, 453 participants; low-certainty evidence). One small study (18 participants) reported two adverse events in the MBI group, which were not regarded as serious by the study investigators (RR 5.0, 95% CI 0.27 to 91.52; low-certainty evidence). No subgroup effects were seen for SBP, DBP, anxiety, depression, or perceived stress by primary and secondary prevention. TM versus active comparators (8 RCTs, 830 participants) Clinical events were reported in one trial (201 participants) based on low-certainty evidence (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.56 to 1.49). SBP was reduced (MD -2.33 mmHg, 95% CI -3.99 to -0.68; I2 = 2%; 8 trials, 774 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), with an uncertain effect on DBP (MD -1.15 mmHg, 95% CI -2.85 to 0.55; I2 = 53%; low-certainty evidence). There was little or no effect on anxiety (SMD 0.06 units, 95% CI -0.22 to 0.33; I2 = 0%; 3 trials, 200 participants; low-certainty evidence), depression (SMD -0.12 units, 95% CI -0.31 to 0.07; I2 = 0%; 5 trials, 421 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), or perceived stress (SMD 0.04 units, 95% CI -0.49 to 0.57; I2 = 70%; 3 trials, 194 participants; very low-certainty evidence). None of the trials reported adverse events or smoking rates. No subgroup effects were seen for SBP or DBP by primary and secondary prevention. TM versus non-active comparators (2 RCTs, 186 participants) Two trials (139 participants) reported blood pressure, where reductions were seen in SBP (MD -6.34 mmHg, 95% CI -9.86 to -2.81; I2 = 0%; low-certainty evidence) and DBP (MD -5.13 mmHg, 95% CI -9.07 to -1.19; I2 = 18%; very low-certainty evidence). One trial (112 participants) reported anxiety and depression and found reductions in both (anxiety SMD -0.71 units, 95% CI -1.09 to -0.32; depression SMD -0.48 units, 95% CI -0.86 to -0.11; low-certainty evidence). None of the trials reported CVD clinical events, adverse events, or smoking rates.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Despite the large number of studies included in the review, heterogeneity was substantial for many of the outcomes, which reduced the certainty of our findings. We attempted to address this by presenting four main comparisons of MBIs or TM versus active or inactive comparators, and by subgroup analyses according to primary or secondary prevention, where there were sufficient studies. The majority of studies were small and there was unclear risk of bias for most domains. Overall, we found very little information on the effects of meditation on CVD clinical endpoints, and limited information on blood pressure and psychological outcomes, for people at risk of or with established CVD. This is a very active area of research as shown by the large number of ongoing studies, with some having been completed at the time of writing this review. The status of all ongoing studies will be formally assessed and incorporated in further updates.

Association Between Mental Health Burden, Clinical Presentation, and Outcomes in Individuals With Symptomatic Peripheral Artery Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Along with the rising burden of peripheral artery disease (PAD), mental health concerns are increasingly being recognized as a comorbidity to address in the chronic disease management of symptomatic PAD. Apart from a high prevalence of comorbid mental health conditions, the role of pain and changing health behaviors and the broader impacts of illness and adaptation to living with PAD require specialized behavioral health expertise. This scientific statement builds a case that this expertise should be integrated within the multidisciplinary PAD team. Furthermore, areas such as cognitive dysfunction and palliative care are highlighted as needing psychological interventions. Although much of the evidence of the efficacy of psychological and psychotropic interventions has been extrapolated from other cardiovascular populations, evidence for the role of psychological interventions for behavior change, for example, uptake of exercise regimens, is increasingly being accrued within PAD. Areas for behavioral health needs and interactions with PAD treatment are discussed, including the use of opioids, depression management, anxiety and stress reduction interventions, the use of benzodiazepines and antidepressants, smoking cessation, rehabilitation trajectories after amputation, and the role of cognitive decline for PAD treatment and outcomes. A case summary highlights the stigma around mental health and vascular disease and the fragmentation of care. This scientific statement provides remarks for building a road map for integrated behavioral PAD care and potential solutions to overcome these barriers. Instrumental to reaching these changes are interprofessional advocacy efforts and initiatives that help break down the stigma around mental health and promote evidence-based collaborative, nonhierarchical, and multidisciplinary PAD care.

Long-term effects of e-Health secondary prevention on cardiovascular health: a systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

Despite the well-documented short-to-medium-term effectiveness of e-Health (electronic health) secondary prevention interventions on patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD), there is limited empirical evidence regarding long-term effectiveness. This review aims to evaluate the long-term effects of e-Health secondary prevention interventions on the health outcomes of patients with CVD.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This systematic review and meta-analysis followed Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. EMBASE, Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched from 1990 to May 2022. Randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of e-Health secondary prevention on health outcomes of CVD patients that collected endpoint data at ≥ 12 months were included. RevMan 5.3 was used for risk of bias assessment and meta-analysis. Ten trials with 1559 participants were included. Data pooling suggested that e-Health programmes have significantly reduced LDL cholesterol [n = 6; SMD = -0.26, 95% confidence interval (CI): (-0.38, -0.14), I2 = 17%, P < 0.001]; systolic blood pressure [n = 5; SMD = -0.46, 95% CI: (-0.84, -0.08), I2 = 90%, P = 0.02]; and re-hospitalization, reoccurrence, and mortality [risk ratio = 0.36, 95% CI: (0.17, 0.77), I2 = 0%, P = 0.009]. Effects on behavioural modification, physiological outcomes of body weight and blood glucose, and quality of life were inconclusive.

CONCLUSION

e-Health secondary prevention is effective in improving long-term management of risk factors and reducing the reoccurrence of cardiac events in patients with CVD. Results are inconclusive for behaviour modification and quality of life. Exploring, implementing, and strengthening strategies in e-Health secondary prevention programmes that focus on maintaining behaviour changes and enhancing psychosocial elements should be undertaken.

REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42022300551.

2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease: A Report of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease" provides an update to and consolidates new evidence since the "2012 ACCF/AHA/ACP/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease" and the corresponding "2014 ACC/AHA/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Focused Update of the Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease."

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from September 2021 to May 2022. Clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and other evidence conducted on human participants were identified that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline.

STRUCTURE

This guideline provides an evidenced-based and patient-centered approach to management of patients with chronic coronary disease, considering social determinants of health and incorporating the principles of shared decision-making and team-based care. Relevant topics include general approaches to treatment decisions, guideline-directed management and therapy to reduce symptoms and future cardiovascular events, decision-making pertaining to revascularization in patients with chronic coronary disease, recommendations for management in special populations, patient follow-up and monitoring, evidence gaps, and areas in need of future research. Where applicable, and based on availability of cost-effectiveness data, cost-value recommendations are also provided for clinicians. Many recommendations from previously published guidelines have been updated with new evidence, and new recommendations have been created when supported by published data.

2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease: A Report of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease" provides an update to and consolidates new evidence since the "2012 ACCF/AHA/ACP/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease" and the corresponding "2014 ACC/AHA/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Focused Update of the Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease."

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from September 2021 to May 2022. Clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and other evidence conducted on human participants were identified that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline.

STRUCTURE

This guideline provides an evidenced-based and patient-centered approach to management of patients with chronic coronary disease, considering social determinants of health and incorporating the principles of shared decision-making and team-based care. Relevant topics include general approaches to treatment decisions, guideline-directed management and therapy to reduce symptoms and future cardiovascular events, decision-making pertaining to revascularization in patients with chronic coronary disease, recommendations for management in special populations, patient follow-up and monitoring, evidence gaps, and areas in need of future research. Where applicable, and based on availability of cost-effectiveness data, cost-value recommendations are also provided for clinicians. Many recommendations from previously published guidelines have been updated with new evidence, and new recommendations have been created when supported by published data.

Return to Work Experience of Young and Middle-Aged Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Longitudinal Qualitative Study

BACKGROUND

Return to work (RTW) is a critical component of rehabilitation for most young and middle-aged patients after an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Its success is related to the quality of life and social psychological function of patients, and their social economic growth. However, healthcare professionals often do not deeply understand the patients' experience and their difficulties and coping methods during this process, which limits their ability to institute effective management and support.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we aimed to explore the lived experiences and change processes of young and middle-aged patients with AMI at the different stages of RTW.

METHODS

A descriptive qualitative approach was used. Patients aged 20 to 59 years with AMI were recruited from the Department of Cardiology of 3 general hospitals. Data were collected via semistructured interviews. Data analysis was performed by conventional content analysis methods.

RESULTS

In total, 18 participants were included. Five main themes emerged: (1) "chaos," (2) "rebuilding," (3) "conflict," (4) "coping," and (5) "benefits." Patients may be more concerned about physical recovery during the initial clinical event. They then begin to plan and adjust for an RTW. Patients in the maintenance phase need strategies to prevent, identify, and respond to conflicts and challenges to maintain long-term stable work.

CONCLUSION

We identified several post-AMI stages spanning from the initial illness event to the maintenance of stable work. We described their perceived barriers, coping strategies, and support needs at these various stages. These data are crucial for healthcare professionals to develop improved vocational rehabilitation strategies for patients with AMI.

Comparative efficacy of psychological interventions on immune biomarkers: A systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA)

Psychological interventions are viable, cost-effective strategies for improving clinical and psychological impact of inflammation-related conditions. However, their efficacy on immune system function remains controversial. We performed a systematic review and frequentist random-effects network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of psychological interventions, against a control condition, on biomarkers of innate and adaptive immunity in adults. PubMed, Scopus, PsycInfo, and Web of Science were searched from inception up to Oct 17, 2022. Cohen's d at 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated to assess the effect sizes of each class of intervention against active control conditions at post-treatment. The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022325508). Of the 5024 articles retrieved, we included 104 RCTs reporting on 7820 participants. Analyses were based on 13 types of clinical interventions. Compared with the control conditions, cognitive therapy (d =  - 0.95, 95% CI: -1.64 to - 0.27), lifestyle (d =  - 0.51, 95% CI: -0.99 to - 0.02), and mindfulness-based (d =  - 0.38, 95% CI: -0.66 to - 0.09) interventions were associated with post-treatment reduction of proinflammatory cytokines and markers. Mindfulness-based interventions were also significantly associated with post-treatment increase in anti-inflammatory cytokines (d = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.09 to 1.30), while cognitive therapy was associated also with post-treatment increase in white blood cell count (d = 1.89, 95% CI: 0.05 to 3.74). Results on natural killer cells activity were non-significant. Grade of evidence was moderate for mindfulness and low-to-moderate for cognitive therapy and lifestyle interventions; however, substantial overall heterogeneity was detected in most of the analyses.

Effect of mindfulness-based stress reduction in patients with acute myocardial infarction after successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention: a retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI).

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted with data collected from AMI patients who underwent successful PPCI. The study included 61 cases that received 8-week MBSR intervention (MBSR group) and 61 cases that received weekly health education (control group) over the same period. Outcome measures, including hemodynamic parameters, psychosocial characteristics [Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Perceived Social Support Scale (PSSS)], health-related quality of life [HRQoL, 7-item Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ-7)], and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), were assessed at baseline (T1), post-intervention (T2), 1 month after the post-intervention (T3) and 3 months after the post-intervention (T4).

RESULTS

Compared to the control group, the MBSR group showed improvements in blood pressure, specifically in systolic blood pressure (SBP) at T4, and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) at T3 and T4, and mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) at T3 and T4. Additionally, the MBSR group had lower scores of anxiety and perceived stress (HADS, PSS) and higher scores of perceived social support (PSSS) after the intervention. Furthermore, the MBSR group had higher scores on the SAQ-7 at all measurement points. The control group had a significantly higher total MACE rate compared to the MBSR group (26.23% vs. 9.84%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides support for the potential benefits of MBSR as an adjunctive treatment for AMI patients undergoing PPCI.

Impact of Heartfulness meditation practice on anxiety, perceived stress, well-being, and telomere length

Objective

Exhaustion, stress, and burnout have all been found to be reduced using techniques like yoga and meditation. This study was carried out to check the effectiveness of Heartfulness practice (a form of meditation) on certain psychological and genetic variables.

Methods

A total of 100 healthy individuals (aged 18-24) were recruited and randomized into two groups-Heartfulness intervention and control group. The intervention was carried out for 03 months. Participants from both groups were analysed for their cortisol levels and telomere length before and after the intervention. Psychometric measures of anxiety, perceived stress, well-being and mindfulness were carried out using Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), WHO-Well-being Index (WHO-WBI) and Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ).

Results

The cortisol levels in the meditators group significantly decreased (p < 0.001) after the intervention as compared to the non-meditators group, whereas, the telomere length increased in the mediators group. This increase was not significant (p > 0.05). Anxiety and perceived stress also decreased post intervention, and well-being as well as mindfulness increased, as assessed by the questionnaire tools, although the decrease in perceived stress was statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). A negative correlation was observed between telomere length and cortisol (stress biomarker), whereas a positive correlation was found between telomere length and well-being.

Conclusion

Our data provide evidence that Heartfulness meditation practice can improve our mental health. Additionally, telomere length is shown to be affected by cortisol levels, and this meditation practice can also help to increase telomere length, and thereby slow down cellular aging. However, future studies with larger sample size are required to confirm our observations.

Efficacy of Cognitive Behavior Therapy in Reducing Depression among Patients with Coronary Heart Disease: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of RCTs

PURPOSE

The aim of this review is to identify the efficacy of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and the characteristics of CBT therapy that effectively improve depression among patients with coronary heart disease (CHD).

METHODS

Studies that assessed CBT efficacy in decreasing depression among CHD patients with randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were searched through PsycINFO, PubMed, CINAHL, Academic Search Complete, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Two reviewers independently screened and critically appraised them using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. The fixed- and random-effect models were applied to pool standardized mean differences.

RESULTS

Fourteen RCTs were included in the quantitative analysis. Depression was significantly lower in the CBT group (SMD -0.37; 95% CI: -0.44 to -0.31; p < 0.00001; I² = 46%). Depression in the CBT group was significantly lower in the short-term follow-up (SMD -0.46; 95% CI: -0.69 to -0.23; p < 0.0001; I² = 52%). Moreover, the subsequent therapy approaches were effective in reducing depression, including face-to-face and remote CBT, CBT alone or combination therapy (individual or mixed with a group), and frequent meetings.

CONCLUSIONS

CBT therapy effectively reduces depression, particularly in short-term follow-up. The application of CBT therapy in CHD patients should consider these findings to increase the efficacy and efficiency of therapy. Future research is needed to address generalizability.

Hybrid and Traditional Cardiac Rehabilitation in a Rural Area: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY

PURPOSE

Cardiac rehabilitation is a prescribed exercise intervention that reduces cardiovascular mortality, secondary events, and hospitalizations. Hybrid cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) is an alternative method that overcomes barriers to participation, such as travel distance and transportation issues. To date, comparisons of HBCR and traditional cardiac rehabilitation (TCR) are limited to randomized controlled trials, which may influence outcomes due to supervision associated with clinical research. Coincidental to the COVID-19 pandemic, we investigated HBCR effectiveness (peak metabolic equivalents [peak METs]), resting heart rate (RHR), resting systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), body mass index (BMI), and depression outcomes (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9]).

METHODS

Via retrospective analysis, TCR and HBCR were examined during the COVID-19 pandemic (October 1, 2020, and March 31, 2022). Key dependent variables were quantified at baseline (pre) and discharge (post). Completion was determined by participation in 18 monitored TCR exercise sessions and four monitored HBCR exercise sessions.

RESULTS

Peak METs increased at post-TCR and HBCR (P < .001); however, TCR resulted in greater improvements (P = .034). The PHQ-9 scores were decreased in all groups (P < .001), while post-SBP and BMI did not improve (SBP: P = .185, BMI: P = .355). Post-DBP and RHR increased (DBP: P = .003, RHR: P = .032), although associations between intervention and program completion were not observed (P = .172).

CONCLUSIONS

Peak METs and depression metric outcomes (PHQ-9) improved with TCR and HBCR. Improvements in exercise capacity were greater with TCR; however, HBCR did not produce inferior results by comparison, an outcome that may have been essential during the first 18 mo of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Yoga, Meditation, Breathing Exercises, and Inflammatory Biomarkers with Possible Implications in COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Introduction

COVID-19, a multisystem disease, has implications for various immunity and infection biomarkers. Yoga (Y), meditation (M), and pranayama (P), and their combinations have shown positive changes on those biomarkers among other than COVID-19 patients and healthy people. So, we aimed to document the evidence of possible implication in a systematic way.

Materials and Methods

We screened 84 full texts, published in the last ten years, from three databases, from which only 44 met the eligibility criteria, and then extracted the data related to demographic characteristics, intervention, results, and strengths and limitations in two MS-Excel grids, and then presented them in tables and figures. Furthermore, we carried out meta-analysis including subgroup and sensitivity analysis using a random effects model of 11 RCTs and reported the mean difference, heterogeneity, and p value with 95% CI and presented them with forest and funnel plots and the tables.

Results

Twenty-five biomarkers of 4023 participants (range, 15-413) from 13 countries, healthy and clinical, from both sexes above 18 years, and from mainly clinical settings, were reported. YMP intervention, in solitary or in different possible combinations with varied durations among clinical and pregnant (range, 960-4800 minutes) and healthy (960-8400 minutes, excluding two studies of 20 minutes only) participants, was reported. It was revealed that 25 biomarkers, nine among the apparently healthy, 14 among the patients, and two among the pregnant, changed favourably (p < 0.05). Furthermore, either in meta- or subgroup-analysis, mean differences of IL-6 (-1.44 pg/ml) (95% CI) (-2.33, -0.55), (p = 0.002, I ²  = 82%), Cortisol (-40.75 pg/ml) (95% CI) (-64.13, -17.38), (p = 0.0006, I ²  = 87%), and TNF-α (-3.40 pg/ml) (95% CI) (-4.83, -1.98), (p < 0.0001, I ²  = 79%) showed statistically significant changes. Nonetheless, considerable heterogeneity and publication bias were observed among the studies.

Conclusion

Although more than two dozens of biomarkers in individual studies showed favourable changes, only IL-6, Cortisol, and TNF-α produced significant combined results, even then with much less certainty. Further meta-analysis of biomarkers of COVID-19 patients is highly recommended. Registration: CRD42021283894.

Utilization of Mind–Body Intervention for Integrative Health Care of COVID-19 Patients and Survivors

Recent findings suggest a correlation between COVID-19 and diabetes, although the underlying causes are still little understood. COVID-19 infection tends to induce severe symptoms in patients with underlying diabetes, increasing their mortality rate. Moreover, COVID-19 itself appears to be a diabetogenic factor. In addition, mental health conditions, such as depression due to lockdown and anxiety about infection, were found to affect glycemic control and immunity, highlighting the importance of mental health care during the pandemic. Mind–Body Intervention (MBI), which includes meditation, yoga, and qigong, has emerged as a tool for mental health management due to its effects on stress reduction and the promotion of mental and physical well-being. Here, we review the latest randomized controlled trials to determine the effects of MBI on glycemic control and the immune system and discuss the underlying mechanisms by which MBI facilitates the virtuous cycle of stress management, glycemic control, and immune modulation. Furthermore, we examine the actual utilization of MBI during the COVID-19 pandemic era through recent studies. With proper online education, non-pharmacological MBI may be more widely used as an important tool for self-health care that complements the usual treatment of COVID-19 patients and survivors.

Association of the 2020 US Presidential Election With Hospitalizations for Acute Cardiovascular Conditions

IMPORTANCE

Prior studies found a higher risk of acute cardiovascular disease (CVD) around population-wide psychosocial or environmental stressors. Less is known about acute CVD risk in relation to political events.

OBJECTIVE

To examine acute CVD hospitalizations following the 2020 presidential election.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This retrospective cohort study examined acute CVD hospitalizations following the 2020 presidential election. Participants were adult members aged 18 years or older at Kaiser Permanente Southern California and Kaiser Permanente Northern California, 2 large, integrated health care delivery systems. Statistical analysis was performed from March to July 2021.

EXPOSURE

2020 US presidential election.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Hospitalizations for acute CVD around the 2020 presidential election were examined. CVD was defined as hospitalizations for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), heart failure (HF), or stroke. Rate ratios (RR) and 95% CIs were calculated comparing rates of CVD hospitalization in the 5 days following the 2020 election with the same 5-day period 2 weeks prior.

RESULTS

Among 6 396 830 adults (3 970 077 [62.1%] aged 18 to 54 years; 3 422 479 [53.5%] female; 1 083 128 [16.9%] Asian/Pacific Islander, 2 101 367 [32.9%] Hispanic, and 2 641 897 [41.3%] White), rates of hospitalization for CVD following the election (666 hospitalizations; rate = 760.5 per 100 000 person-years [PY]) were 1.17 times higher (95% CI, 1.05-1.31) compared with the same 5-day period 2 weeks prior (569 hospitalizations; rate = 648.0 per 100 000 PY). Rates of AMI were significantly higher following the election (RR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.13-1.79). No significant difference was found for stroke (RR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.86-1.21) or HF (RR, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.98-1.42).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Higher rates of acute CVD hospitalization were observed following the 2020 presidential election. Awareness of the heightened risk of CVD and strategies to mitigate risk during notable political events are needed.

Mind and body interventions in cardiology : The importance of the brain-heart connection

Mind and body interventions aim to harness the "relaxation response", reduce stress, and improve quality of life, which is important in the search for more holistic treatment approaches in cardiovascular medicine. This article describes the pertinent pathophysiological correlates building the mechanistic backbone for these interventions. They can be found in the complex connections of brain and heart (central and autonomic nervous system, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis), which play an important role in the development of various cardiovascular disease conditions and hold potential as therapeutic targets. The evidence regarding the effect of mind and body interventions in cardiology with a focus on arrhythmia and psychocardiology is reviewed systematically. To date, mostly small pilot studies prone to substantial bias and without adequate power have dominated the field and longer-term outcome data are lacking. Ultimately, integration of mind and body interventions could empower patients by strengthening their individual responsibility and mental power in addition to the benefits of stress reduction and improvement of quality of life. Whether this will translate into relevant longer-term clinical outcomes remains uncertain. Therefore, this field offers multifaceted opportunities for further research and practical applications.

Mindfulness interventions for offsetting health risk following early life stress: Promising directions

Early life stress (ELS), common to childhood maltreatment, socioeconomic disadvantage, and racial discrimination, is thought to create a proinflammatory phenotype that increases risk for poor health in adulthood. Systemic change is needed to address the root causes of ELS, but a substantial number of adults are already at increased health risk by virtue of ELS exposure. Interventions that target stress pathways have the potential to interrupt the trajectory from ELS to inflammatory disease risk in adulthood. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), which train acceptance toward present-moment experience, have shown promise for reducing stress and improving a variety of stress-sensitive health outcomes. Although MBIs have primarily been conducted in more advantaged populations, evidence suggests that they may be uniquely effective for improving mental health and health-related quality of life among those with a history of ELS. Whether these effects extend to physical health remains unknown. To shed light on this question, I review evidence that MBIs influence inflammatory markers in at-risk samples, explore the promise of MBIs for improving stress-related health outcomes in diverse at-risk populations, and describe adaptations to MBIs that may increase their acceptability and efficacy in populations exposed to ELS. This prior work sets the stage for well-controlled RCTs to evaluate whether MBIs influence stress and inflammatory pathways among those exposed to ELS and for pragmatic and implementation trials focused on disseminating MBIs to reach these at-risk populations. Overall, the evidence assembled here shows the potential of MBIs for offsetting physical health risk related to ELS.

Web- and Mindfulness-Based Intervention to Prevent Chronic Pain After Cardiac Surgery: Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Cardiac surgery is a frequently performed procedure. However, pain after cardiac surgery may become chronic (lasting >3 months) in adults. Once discharged from the hospital, patients are at greater risk of developing chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) and of prolonged opioid use, as they need to self-manage their pain. Psychological risk and protective factors such as pain-related catastrophic thoughts and pain acceptance determine their ability to cope and their use of opioids, which is crucial for self-management of pain. Studies on mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) have multiplied their potential effects on pain acceptance and catastrophic thoughts. However, web-based MBCT for the prevention of CPSP has not yet been examined.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to pilot test a 4-week-long web-based MBCT intervention for adults following discharge from the hospital by assessing the acceptability or feasibility of the intervention and examining preliminary effects on pain intensity, pain interference with activities and opioid use, and pain acceptance and catastrophic thoughts in the 6 months following surgery.

METHODS

A double-blinded pilot randomized controlled trial will be used to assess a web-based MBCT intervention. Patients will be selected according to the following criteria: age ≥18 years; first-time elective cardiac surgery via a median sternotomy; worst pain in the past week score ≥4/10; ability to understand and complete questionnaires in English; and ability to use an electronic device such as a smartphone, computer, or tablet. After baseline measures, 32 participants will be randomized into two groups: one receiving both the brief, 4-week-long web-based MBCT intervention and usual care (experimental group) and the other receiving only one standardized, web-based educational session with weekly reminders and usual care (attention control group). Peer-reviewed competitive funding was received from Florida State University's Council on Research & Creativity in January 2021, as well as research ethics approval from Florida State University's institutional review board.

RESULTS

Recruitment began in June 2021. Unfortunately, because of the current COVID-19 pandemic, recruitment is not progressing as expected. Recruitment strategies are constantly monitored and updated according to latest data and restrictions surrounding the pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS

This research is significant because it targets the trajectory of CPSP, a leading cause of disability and opioid misuse. This is the first study to assess MBCT for the prevention of CPSP after cardiac surgery in the recovery phase. This approach is innovative because it promotes self-management of pain through the modulation of individual factors. If successful, the intervention could be expanded to numerous populations at risk of chronic pain.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/30951.

Prognostic effects of cardiovascular rehabilitation: facts and myths

Since CR was introduced, studies have been carried out to discover the effect of CRHPs on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and on heart-disease patients' quality of life. The first meta-analyses showed improvement in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, although the studies were conducted in the coronary pre-reperfusion era, before the generalized use in secondary prevention of drugs such as statins, beta-blockers, or renin-angiotensin-system inhibitors, which have produced a decrease in cardiovascular mortality. In Europe, analyzing 25 studies with more than 200,000 patients. It concluded that, in spite of the great heterogeneity of the programs, CR clearly decreases mortality after ACS. Nevertheless, a strategy of CRHP standardization and evaluation is needed. In 2017, a study was carried out in our hospital to evaluate the effectiveness of multidisciplinary CRHP intervention on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, recurrence of cardiovascular events, the control of RFCV and lifestyle changes in patients after ACS. A total of 442 patients were included who had presented an acute cardiovascular event in the previous six months; 306 patients from the CR group and 136 others with standard cardiology follow-up were used as controls. 405 patients completed follow-up for a median of 60 months. Compared to the usual treatments in cardiology, the patients who underwent CRHPs presented fewer readmissions for cardiovascular reasons (17% vs. 43.38%, P<0.001), fewer major cardiovascular events (11.9% vs. 27.2%, P<0.001) and new revascularizations (9.3% vs. 21.32%, P=0.001), with lower cardiovascular mortality (0 vs. 2.2%, P=0.014). It also led to better control of the RFCV (66% vs. 19.85%, P<0.001) and favored lifestyle changes in these patients (91% vs. 61%, P<0.001). Therefore, in our setting, the performance of CRHPs was shown to be effective in reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and in the secondary prevention of coronary patients.

Exploring the consequences of patient commitment to cardiac rehabilitation program: A qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Commitment to implementing cardiac rehabilitation (CR) plays an important role in managing the problems caused by heart diseases. Commitment to the treatment plan implementation is accompanied by numerous positive consequences. This study was carried out to explain the consequences of commitment to CR.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews with 26 participants (13 CR specialists and 13 patients), using purposeful sampling. Interview questions focused on the factors influencing the formation of commitment to the CR and its consequences. Conventional content analysis with Graneheim and Lundman's approach was used to analyze the data. To obtain data trustworthiness, Lincoln and Guba's criteria were used.

RESULTS

The findings were classified in three categories: purposeful of a purposeful behavior structure (sense of controlling and managing the condition, sense of responsibility, sense of security), formation of active performance structure (interaction between the patient-family-treatment team, stabilization of behavior and prevention of intermittent behavior, no cessation of the treatment plan and adherence to it, directing behaviors and adaptation to conditions) and achieving dynamic and effective care (active follow-up of the treatment plan, sense of satisfaction, reduced readmission, reduced costs, improved quality of life, reduced anxiety and concerns about treatment failure, increased self-care ability).

CONCLUSION

The results show that the patient's commitment to CR is accompanied by optimal consequences. The results of this study can help design the training plan for the CR staff and develop the clinical practice guidelines to provide educational-care approaches to patients to reinforce their commitment.

Mind-Body Interventions for Rehabilitation Medicine: Promoting Wellness, Healing, and Coping with Adversity

Physical medicine providers work to cure organic aspects of disease while simultaneously enhancing quality of life and well-being. Mind-body interventions are evidence-based, cost-effective approaches to serve these aims. This article enhances provider knowledge and acceptance of the most effective and prevalent mind-body modalities: meditation, guided imagery, clinical hypnosis, and biofeedback. The scientific evidence is strongest for mind-body applications for chronic pain, primary headache, cardiac rehabilitation, and cancer rehabilitation, with preliminary evidence for traumatic brain injury and cerebrovascular events. Mind-body interventions are well-tolerated by patients and should be considered part of standard care in physical medicine and rehabilitation settings.