Cardiac rehabilitation delivery model for low-resource settings

The effectiveness of interactive cardiac rehabilitation web applications versus usual care on programme completion in patients with cardiovascular disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

IntroductionAlthough available evidence demonstrates positive clinical outcomes for patients attending and completing cardiac rehabilitation, the effectiveness of interactive cardiac rehabilitation web applications on programme completion has not been systematically examined.MethodsThis JBI systematic review of effects included studies measuring effectiveness of interactive cardiac rehabilitation web applications compared to telephone, and centre-based programmes. Outcome data were pooled under programme completion and clinical outcomes (body mass index, low-density lipoproteins, and blood pressure). Databases including MEDLINE (via Ovid), Cochrane Library, Scopus (via Elsevier) and CINAHL (via EBSCO) published in English were searched. Articles were screened and reviewed by two independent reviewers for inclusion, and the JBI critical appraisal tool and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation tool were applied to appraise and assess the certainty of the findings of the included studies. A meta-analysis of the primary and secondary outcomes used random effects models.ResultsIn total, nine studies involving 1175 participants who participated in web-based cardiac rehabilitation to usual care were identified. The mean critical appraisal tool score was 76 (standard deviation: 9.7) with all (100%) studies scoring >69%, and the certainty of evidence low. Web-based programmes were 43% more likely to be completed than usual care (risk ratio: 1.43; 95% confidence interval: 0.96, 2.13) There was no difference between groups for clinical outcomes.DiscussionDespite the relatively small number of studies, high heterogeneity and the limited outcome measures, the results appeared to favour web-based cardiac rehabilitation with regard to programme completion.

Effectiveness of alternative exercises in cardiac rehabilitation on program completion and outcomes in women with or at high risk of cardiovascular disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of alternative exercises within a cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program compared to traditional gym-based exercises or usual care. The focus was on CR completion and outcomes in women.

INTRODUCTION

CR programs generally offer traditional gym-based exercises, including treadmill exercises, cycling on ergometers, and conventional resistance training. However, these exercises may not be suitable for all individuals, particularly women with chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Alternative exercises, such as yoga, Pilates, tai chi, Nordic walking, and dancing, have been suggested as safer and more enjoyable options, potentially increasing CR completion rates among women. However, the evidence on the effectiveness of alternative exercises in improving CR completion and other health outcomes for women remains limited.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

This systematic review included randomized controlled trials evaluating the effects of alternative exercises in a CR program that recruited at least 50% women.

METHODS

The following databases were searched from inception to January 15, 2024: MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase (Ovid), Emcare (Ovid), Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, and PsycINFO (Ovid). Two reviewers independently assessed the methodological quality and certainty of evidence using the JBI critical appraisal instrument and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE), respectively. Meta-analyses with random-effects models were conducted for data synthesis.

RESULTS

Eight RCTs were included involving 398 women studied. Alternative exercises (yoga, tai chi, stepping exercises, Nordic walking, outdoor walking, and aerobic dance) had little to no effect on women's CR completion compared to usual care (risk ratio [RR] 1.02; 95%CI 0.87-1.20; 2 trials; 51 participants; I2=0%, very low certainty of evidence). These alternative exercises may result in improved systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, body weight, and 6-minute-walk test at ≤12 weeks follow-up. Alternative exercises had little to no effect on other health outcomes, including body mass index, lipid profiles, fasting blood sugar, hemoglobin A1c, peak oxygen uptake, quality of life, and depression symptoms at ≤12 weeks. When examining longer-term impacts, it appears offering these modalities had little to no effect on blood pressure (systolic and diastolic) at 24 weeks. The evidence supporting these findings was rated as very low certainty for each outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence on the effects of alternative exercises within CR on women's CR completion and health outcomes remains limited. This is primarily due to the small number of trials involving women and the very low certainty of evidence for each outcome. Future well-designed RCTs are needed to provide more robust findings.

REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42022354996.

Technology-based comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation therapy for women in a middle-income setting: a randomized controlled trial

AIMS

Women are under-represented in cardiac rehabilitation (CR), especially in lower-income settings. This study tested Technology-bAsed Cardiac rehabilitation Therapy (TaCT) on functional capacity, risk factors, quality of life (QoL; MacNew), heart-health behaviours (e.g. Global Physical Activity Questionnaire), cardiac symptoms (e.g. angina), and morbidity (e.g. hospitalization and procedure) in women.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Single-centre, single-blind, two parallel arms (1:1 SNOSE) randomized superiority trial, undertaken in an Indian outpatient cardiology department, where women with stable cardiac disease and smartphone access were recruited. TaCT was compared with standard care (CR rare), with assessments conducted before the intervention, and 6 months later. The 6-month comprehensive intervention was delivered via several technologies. Exercise prescriptions were based on an Incremental Shuttle Walk Test (ISWT; primary outcome). Analyses were based on intention-to-treat. Fifty women were randomized to intervention, and 50 to control (n = 89; 89.0% retained). There were few tobacco users. Results for the following outcomes favoured intervention: functional capacity [ISWT effect size = 0.3 (95% confidence interval = 1.0 to -0.2), P = 0.002; Duke Activity Status Index P < 0.001; Sit-to-Stand P = 0.003], QoL (global and all subscale P's < 0.001), and heart-health behaviours (exercise P < 0.001; medication adherence P = 0.02), and anxiety (P = 0.002). There were no significant differences in blood pressure, waist circumference, or cardiac symptoms. Three participants in the intervention group experienced morbidity and 1 suffered mortality and 9 in controls experienced morbidity only.

CONCLUSION

The TaCT program significantly improved functional capacity, QoL, heart-health behaviours and anxiety in women with cardiovascular disease in a middle-income country, demonstrating the potential of technology-based CR tailored for women in these settings.

REGISTRATION

CTRI/2021/07/035197 URL: https://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/rmaindet.php?trialid=51810&EncHid=79231.15408&modid=1&compid=19.

A multi-site prospective controlled pilot evaluation of Cardiac College for Women in the cardiac rehabilitation setting

OBJECTIVE

To test the limited efficacy of women-focused educational materials within supervised cardiac rehabilitation (CR) for the first time when compared to standard co-educational CR.

METHODS

A multi-site, prospective, pilot study with blinded outcome assessment was conducted at two Canadian CR programs. At intake, participants selected women-only CR with women-focused education (12 weeks) or a standard co-educational program (16 weeks). Both were comprehensive programs, with one education session/week. Outcomes were disease-related knowledge, functional capacity, quality of life, and heart-health behaviours.

RESULTS

Of 114 women approached, 62 (54.4 %) consented. Forty elected the women-only CR program. Pre-CR medication adherence was high. Participants attended approximately 60 % of sessions; 55 (88.7 %) were retained at follow-up. Significant improvements in knowledge, quality of life, and functional capacity were observed in both groups (all p < .05). With adjustment for pre-CR scores, participants in women-only CR exhibited significantly greater improvements in knowledge (p < .05) and adherence to the Mediterranean diet (p = .04) post-program compared to control participants.

CONCLUSION

Results support of the utility of this women-focused education in the CR setting.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Integrating women-focused education in CR can enhance health outcomes and address specific needs of female patients.

Remote Exercise Engagement Among Individuals With Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review of Barriers and Facilitators

PURPOSE

To systematically review the literature regarding barriers and facilitators to remote exercise among individuals with cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

REVIEW METHODS

Six databases were searched (inception-December 2023). Studies including barriers and facilitators for remote exercise reported by individuals living with CVD were considered. Quality was rated using the Mixed Methods Assessment Tool (MMAT). Results were synthesized following a thematic analysis approach. Characteristics of interventions were reported using the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR).

SUMMARY

From an initial pool of 8543 records, 18 studies met the inclusion criteria. Among these, 13 were qualitative studies, with individual interviews being the most frequent data extraction method. Nine studies received 5/5 MMAT scores (ie, high quality). Twelve studies reported remote exercise interventions, mostly delivered within cardiac rehabilitation, by physiotherapists, nurses, and dietitians, predominantly via telephone calls or videoconferences, with only one study incorporating text messages. Five key themes influencing remote exercise interventions were identified: technology (encompassing access and literacy, self-monitoring/motivation, and security concerns), individual health considerations (health/personal aspects and coronavirus disease-2019), social factors (support from health care team and family/social support), environment (facilities), and logistical factors (time and displacement). Several themes served as both facilitators and barriers. Key insights for remote exercise interventions included mobile accessibility, interactive chat sessions, minimal click interactions, short sessions, personalized feedback, and flexible timing. Results emphasize the importance of promoting social interaction and support between participants and health care teams to mitigate barriers and enhance facilitators in remote exercise interventions for individuals with CVD.

Comparative efficacy and adherence of telehealth cardiac rehabilitation interventions for patients with cardiovascular disease: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Traditional center-based cardiac rehabilitation had low adherence rates. With the increasing utilization of digital technology in healthcare services, telehealth can overcome common barriers to improve adherence, and some telehealth interventions have been proven safe and effective. However, it remains unclear which telehealth intervention types can maximize the efficacy and adherence for cardiac rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effect of different types of telehealth interventions on the efficacy and adherence of patients with cardiovascular disease in cardiac rehabilitation.

DESIGN

Systematic review and network meta-analysis.

METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, CINAHL, ProQuest, Scopus, and Embase databases for randomized controlled trials of telehealth cardiac rehabilitation for cardiovascular disease patients from January 2013 to March 2024. The primary outcomes were peak oxygen uptake (VO2 peak) and adherence. Secondary outcomes included 6-minute walking distance, moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity, depression, self-reported quality of life, and patient satisfaction. The study protocol has been registered on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42023459643).

RESULTS

This network meta-analysis included 46 randomized controlled trials. The results indicated that telehealth cardiac rehabilitation improved VO2 peak, 6-minute walking distance, moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity, and adherence. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) results showed that the Wearable Devices + Smartphone Applications (SUCRA = 86.8 %, mean rank = 1.7) was the most effective telehealth intervention for improving VO2 peak. The Smartphone Applications + Instant Communication Tools (SUCRA = 74.2 %, mean rank = 2.6) was the most effective telehealth intervention for promoting adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

Combining two or more types of telehealth interventions was found to be effective. Future efforts should prioritize conducting high-quality randomized controlled trials to identify more effective combinations with traditional cardiac rehabilitation.

Barriers to Cardiac Rehabilitation Enrollment and Secondary Prevention Adherence in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Cross-sectional Survey

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate adherence to secondary prevention measures and to identify barriers to cardiac rehabilitation enrolment among patients with coronary heart disease after percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods

An observational cross-sectional survey was conducted through computer-assisted telephone interviews to assess recently treated percutaneous coronary intervention patients at the Prince Sultan Cardiac Center in Saudi Arabia.

Results

Out of 104 surveyed patients with coronary heart disease, 85 (82%) were male, with an average age of 59.5 years. The obesity rate was 28% (n = 29), with a high prevalence of comorbidities: 82 (79%), 63 (61%), and 62 (60%) patients had hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and hypertension, respectively. Despite high medication compliance (97%), adherence to secondary prevention measures was low (21%). Adherence to physical exercise and weight monitoring for fluid body build-up was notably poor at 35% and 9%, respectively. Only 11 (10.6%) patients were referred for cardiac rehabilitation, of whom only four (36.4%) attended. Significant barriers such as a lack of staff contact, insufficient physician support, and distance to cardiac rehabilitation facilities were particularly noted by 69% of rural patients.

Conclusions

This study underscores the significant cardiac risk factors and low adherence to secondary prevention measures among post revascularization patients with coronary heart disease in Saudi Arabia. Low referral and other organizational barriers, as well as the travel distance to hospital-based cardiac rehabilitation, hinder program enrolment. To improve cardiac rehabilitation accessibility, it is crucial to revise the discharge plans, implement automated referral systems, expand the services across all regions, and utilize alternative delivery models.

Exercise intensity prescription in cardiovascular rehabilitation: bridging the gap between best evidence and clinical practice

Optimizing endurance exercise intensity prescription is crucial to maximize the clinical benefits and minimize complications for individuals at risk for or with cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, standardization remains incomplete due to variations in clinical guidelines. This review provides a practical and updated guide for health professionals on how to prescribe endurance exercise intensity for cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) populations, addressing international guidelines, practical applicability across diverse clinical settings and resource availabilities. In the context of CR, cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) is considered the gold standard assessment, and prescription based on ventilatory thresholds (VTs) is the preferable methodology. In settings where this approach isn't accessible, which is frequently the case in low-resource environments, approximating VTs involves combining objective assessments-ideally, exercise tests without gas exchange analyses, but at least alternative functional tests like the 6-minute walk test-with subjective methods for adjusting prescriptions, such as Borg's ratings of perceived exertion and the Talk Test. Therefore, enhancing exercise intensity prescription and offering personalized physical activity guidance to patients at risk for or with CVD rely on aligning workouts with individual physiological changes. A tailored prescription promotes a consistent and impactful exercise routine for enhancing health outcomes, considering patient preferences and motivations. Consequently, the selection and implementation of the best possible approach should consider available resources, with an ongoing emphasis on strategies to improve the delivery quality of exercise training in the context of FITT-VP prescription model (frequency, intensity, time, type, volume, and progression).

Barriers and facilitators to nutritional recommendations identified by participants of a cardiovascular rehabilitation program in a low resource context in Brazil

OBJECTIVES

Nutritional recommendations, a core component of cardiovascular rehabilitation, play a vital role in managing cardiovascular diseases. However, adherence to these recommendations is complex, particularly in low-resource settings. This study explored the barriers and facilitators influencing adherence to nutritional recommendations among participants in a low-resource cardiovascular rehabilitation program in Brazil.

METHODS

A mixed-methods approach was employed. Sociodemographic data, the Mediterranean diet score, scale for assessing nutrition, and open-ended questions on adherence were collected. Those who completed the questionnaires (phase 1) were invited to participate in one focus group session (phase 2). The participants were characterized according to the responses provided in phase 1 (Mediterranean diet score and scale for assessing nutrition) in low adherence or high adherence to dietary practice. Descriptive statistics and thematic content analysis within the context of the theory of planned behavior were employed.

RESULTS

Seventy-four participants completed phase 1, with 41.9% classified into low adherence and 27.0% in high adherence; of those, 17 participated in phase 2. Focus group findings revealed 9 themes/29 subthemes. Barriers included food prices, income, knowledge, routine, food access, family patterns, disease, work, anxiety, eating habits, and food planning. Facilitators included affordable food, health considerations, taste preferences, knowledge, family/professional support, government assistance, personal willpower, income stability, easy food access, media influence, and a quiet eating place.

CONCLUSIONS

The study findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, including individualized meal planning, community engagement, and enhanced access to healthcare professionals, to optimize dietary adherence and improve cardiovascular outcomes.

Return to work rate of individuals after cardiac rehabilitation and the demographic and impairment factors that influence return to work in the Western Cape, South Africa

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) commonly affects individuals within the working age group, often resulting in unemployment, particularly in low- to middle-income countries. The purpose of the study was to determine the return to work (RTW) rate of individuals with CVD after cardiac rehabilitation (CR) and the impact of impairment and socio-demographics on the individual's ability to (RTW).

Methods

A cross-sectional survey, namely the Work Rehabilitation Questionnaire (WORQ) was used to gather the information. The IBM SPSS software (version 25) was used to manage the statistical analysis. Individuals who completed a CR program between the ages of 18 and 64 years made up a sample of 63 research participants.

Results

The RTW rate reported that only 30 (47.6%) of the participants successfully RTW after CR and 33 (52.4%) of participants did not RTW. The results also indicated that the older the individual and the higher the degree of impairment experienced, the less likely RTW would occur.

Conclusion

Factors such as the age and level of functional impairment of the individual with CVD must be addressed more aggressively in CR programs, particularly if the goal of the individual with CVD is to RTW.

Assessing the Quality and Reliability of Cardiac Rehabilitation Information on YouTube: A Systematic Evaluation

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to systematically evaluate the quality and reliability of YouTube videos on cardiac rehabilitation, addressing a gap in the literature regarding the assessment of online health resources in this field.

DESIGN AND SETTING

The study is a cross-sectional analysis. This research was conducted entirely online, utilizing the YouTube platform for data collection.

MAIN MEASURES

The videos were assessed for educational quality and reliability using modified versions of the DISCERN, Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), and Global Quality Scale (GQS) benchmarks. Specific data points such as upload date, length, uploader and narrator identity, and engagement metrics (views, likes, and dislikes) were also collected.

RESULTS

 Out of 300 videos initially reviewed, 140 met the inclusion criteria. The majority of videos were of low quality (67.9%), with medium (12.9%) and high-quality (19.3%) content being less common. Videos were predominantly uploaded by academic, university, or hospital sources (63.6%) and narrated by non-physician health professionals (41.4%). The content mainly provided general information about cardiac rehabilitation.

CONCLUSIONS

 The study revealed a concerning predominance of low-quality YouTube content on cardiac rehabilitation, underscoring the necessity for healthcare professionals and academic institutions to enhance the quality of online resources.

Delivering effective, comprehensive, multi-exercise component cardiac rehabilitation (CR) for chronic heart failure patients in low resource settings in sub-Saharan Africa: Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital-(QECH-CR) randomised CR study, Malawi

BACKGROUND

The delivery of Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) and attaining evidence-based treatment goals are challenging in developing countries, such as Malawi. The aims of this study were to (i) assess the effects of exercise training/ CR programme on cardiorespiratory and functional capacity of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF), and (ii) examine the effectiveness of a novel, hybrid CR delivery using integrated supervised hospital- and home-based caregiver approaches.

METHODS

A pre-registered (UMIN000045380), randomised controlled trial of CR exercise therapy in patients with CHF was conducted between September 2021 and May 2022. Sixty CHF participants were randomly assigned into a parallel design-exercise therapy (ET) (n = 30) or standard of care (n = 30) groups. Resting hemodynamics, oxygen saturation, distance walked in six-minutes (6MWD) and estimated peak oxygen consumption (VO2 peak) constituted the outcome measures. The exercise group received supervised, group, circuit-based ET once weekly within the hospital setting and prescribed home-based exercise twice weekly for 12 weeks. Participants in both arms received a group-based, health behaviour change targeted education (usual care) at baseline, 8-, 12- and 16-weeks.

RESULTS

Most of the participants were female (57%) with a mean age of 51.9 ±15.7 years. Sixty-five percent (65%) were in New York Heart Association class III, mostly with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (HFpEF) (mean Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction 52.9 ±10.6%). The 12-weeks ET led to significant reductions in resting haemodynamic measures (all P <0.05). The ET showed significantly higher improvements in the 6MWD (103.6 versus 13.9 m, p<0.001) and VO2 peak (3.0 versus 0.4 ml·kg-1·min-1, p <0.001). Significant improvements in 6MWD and VO2 peak (both p<0.001), in favour of ET, were also observed across all follow-up timepoints.

CONCLUSION

This novel, randomised, hybrid ET-based CR, delivered to mainly HFpEF patients using an integrated hospital- and home-based approach effectively improved exercise tolerance, cardiorespiratory fitness capacities and reduced perceived exertion in a resource-limited setting.

A Systematic Review of Clinical Practice Guidelines and Consensus Statements for Cardiac Rehabilitation Delivery: Consensus, Divergence, and Important Knowledge Gaps

BACKGROUND

After 2020, clinical practice recommendations have been released to inform cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs of best practices for post-COVID programming. The objective of this systematic review was to identify and summarize recommendations from clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) and consensus statements for CR delivery postpandemic.

METHODS

Five databases (March 2020 through April 2023), grey literature and Web sites of CR international associations were searched. Inclusion criteria were local, national, and international association-endorsed CPGs, and/or position, expert, and scientific statements related to CR delivery (program models, program elements, and core components). Two researchers independently screened the citations for inclusion. The Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II was used for quality assessment. Results were analyzed in accordance with the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis (SWiM) reporting guidelines.

RESULTS

Overall, 4890 records were identified; 4 CPGs, 9 position/scientific statements, and 6 expert/Delphi consensus papers were included. All guidelines/statements included information related to program delivery models, with 95% endorsing the use of virtual, hybrid, home-based, and telerehabilitation, especially during the pandemic. Outside of the context of COVID-19, program components including referral, CR indications, CR contraindications, timing, and structure were included in the 4 CPGs and 2 of 15 statements. Recommendations related to CR core components were primarily focused on exercise, with no changes since before the pandemic except for COVID-19 considerations for safety. One guideline was specific to women, and 1 scientific statement to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

CONCLUSIONS

Although 19 documents were identified, CR delivery in low resource settings and for culturally and linguistically diverse populations require attention. Additionally, few recommendations on nutrition, psychosocial counselling, and patient education were reported.

Women-Focused Cardiac Rehabilitation Delivery Around the World and Program Enablers to Support Broader Implementation

Background

Women are less likely than men to use cardiac rehabilitation (CR); thus, women-focused (W-F) CR was developed. Implementation of W-F CR globally was investigated, as well as barriers and enablers to its delivery.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, a survey was administered to CR programs via Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) from May to July, 2023. Potential respondents were identified via the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation's network.

Results

A total of 223 responses were received from 52 of 111 countries (46.8% country response rate) in the world that have any CR, across all 6 World Health Organization regions. Thirty-three programs (14.8%) from 30 countries reported offering any W-F programming. Programs commonly did offer elements preferred by women and recommended, namely, the following: patient choice of session time (n = 151; 70.6%); invitations for informal care providers and/or partners to attend sessions (n = 121; 57.1%); CR staff that have expertise in women and heart diseases (n = 112; 53.3%); separate changerooms for women (n = 38; 52.8%); and discussion of CR referral with patients (n = 112; 52.1%). Main barriers to delivery of W-F exercise were physical resources (n = 33; 14.8%), space (n = 30; 13.5%), and staff time (n = 26; 11.7%) and expertise (n = 33; 10.3%). Main barriers to delivery of W-F education were human resources (n = 114; 51.1%), educational resources (n = 26; 11.7%), and expertise in the content (n = 74; 33.2%). Enablers of W-F education delivery were availability of materials, in multiple modalities, as well as educated staff and financial resources.

Conclusions

Despite the benefits, W-F CR is not commonly offered globally. Considering the barriers and enablers identified, the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation is developing resources to expand delivery.

Nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and practices about rehabilitation of patients after heart valve surgery in Namibia

Background

A cardiac rehabilitation programme is a medically supervised intervention to assist patients in recovery after heart surgeries and to prevent potential complications. Nurses should have the knowledge, a positive attitudes, and good practices to improve patient quality of life during the recovery process.

Aim

This study aimed to describe the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the nurses regarding cardiac rehabilitation for patients after heart valve surgery.

Setting

The study setting was Windhoek Central Hospital, Cardiac Unit, in Windhoek, Namibia.

Methods

A quantitative and descriptive research design was used for convenient non-probability sampling of (N = 23) nurses who consented to participate in the study. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS Version 26. Descriptive statistics were used and Fischer's Exact test for associations of variables was performed.

Results

The study results showed a high level of knowledge, good attitudes, and poor to fair practices toward cardiac rehabilitation. However, the respondents demonstrate a lack of knowledge about the indications, and benefits of cardiac rehabilitation, negative attitudes regarding counselling of patients on sexual activities, and poor practice regarding exercises and counseling of patients and caregivers on cardiac rehabilitation. Furthermore, there is a positive relationship between the respondents' older age, senior rank, and having been trained I cardiac conditions and their knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding some core components of cardiac rehabilitation with P-value < 0.050.

Conclusion

There is a need for a cardiac rehabilitation programme to improve nurses' attitudes and practices toward cardiac rehabilitation.

Contribution

Understanding the gap in knowledge, attitudes, and practices among the nurses regarding cardiac rehabilitation would guide the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) in the implementation of the cardiac rehabilitation for patients after heart valve surgery.

Hybrid Cardiac Rehabilitation Program in a Low-Resource Setting: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

While effective, cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) as traditionally delivered is not well implemented in lower-resource settings.

Objective

To test the noninferiority of hybrid CR compared with traditional CR in terms of cardiovascular events.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This pragmatic, multicenter, parallel arm, open-label randomized clinical trial (the Hybrid Cardiac Rehabilitation Trial [HYCARET]) with blinded outcome assessment was conducted at 6 referral centers in Chile. Adults aged 18 years or older who had a cardiovascular event or procedure, no contraindications to exercise, and access to a mobile telephone were eligible and recruited between April 1, 2019, and March 15, 2020, with follow-up until July 29, 2021.

Interventions

Participants were randomized 1:1 in permuted blocks to the experimental arm, which received 10 center-based supervised exercise sessions plus counseling in 4 to 6 weeks and then were supported at home via telephone calls and text messages through weeks 8 to 12, or the control arm, which received the standard CR of 18 to 22 sessions with exercises and education in 8 to 12 weeks.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was cardiovascular events or mortality. Secondary outcomes were quality of life, return to work, and lifestyle behaviors measured with validated questionnaires; muscle strength and functional capacity, measured through physical tests; and program adherence and exercise-related adverse events, assessed using checklists.

Results

A total of 191 participants were included (mean [SD] age, 58.74 [9.80] years; 145 [75.92%] male); 93 were assigned to hybrid CR and 98 to standard CR. At 1 year, events had occurred in 5 unique participants in the hybrid CR group (5.38%) and 9 in the standard CR group (9.18%). In the intention-to-treat analysis, the hybrid CR group had 3.80% (95% CI, -11.13% to 3.52%) fewer cardiovascular events than the standard CR group, and relative risk was 0.59 (95% CI, 0.20-1.68) for the primary outcome. In the per-protocol analysis at different levels of adherence to the intervention, all 95% CIs crossed the noninferiority boundary (eg, 20% adherence: absolute risk difference, -0.35% [95% CI, -7.56% to 6.85%]; 80% adherence: absolute risk difference, 3.30% [95% CI, -3.70% to 10.31%]). No between-group differences were found for secondary outcomes except adherence to supervised CR sessions (79.14% [736 of 930 supervised sessions] in the hybrid CR group vs 61.46% [1201 of 1954 sessions] in the standard CR group).

Conclusions and Relevance

The results suggest that a hybrid CR program is noninferior to standard center-based CR in a low-resource setting, primarily in terms of recurrent cardiovascular events and potentially in terms of intermediate outcomes. Hybrid CR may induce superior adherence to supervised exercise. Clinical factors and patient preferences should inform CR model allocation.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03881150.

Translation, cultural adaptation and psychometric validation of the Arabic short version of the coronary artery disease education questionnaire (CADE-Q SV) in Saudi Arabia

Objective

To translate, culturally adapt, and psychometrically validate the Arabic Coronary Artery Disease Education Questionnaire Short Version (CADE-Q SV).

Methods

The CADE-Q SV was translated to Arabic by two independent translators, followed by back-translation. Then, an expert panel of 10 healthcare providers and 10 patients reviewed the survey and provided input for content validity (CV) and clarity of items. For the psychometric analysis, 202 cardiac patients from Saudi Arabia completed the questionnaire, of which factor structure, internal consistency, construct, and criterion validity were assessed.

Results

Items were translated, and CV was confirmed. Items were rated based on relevance and understandability. The scale was finalized after changes in 5 items. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed 5 factors, all internally consistent: medical condition, risk factors, exercise, nutrition, and psychosocial health. Overall alpha was 0.84. Construct validity was established by significant associations between scores and occupation, educational level, family income, having a diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome or valve disorders and with a history of valve repair or replacement a coronary artery bypass graft procedure. Scores were significantly higher for those that participated in cardiac rehabilitation, confirming criterion validity.

Conclusions

Results from this study confirm the validity and reliability of the CADE-Q SV in Arabic-speaking patients.

Innovation

The CADE-Q SV can be used as a knowledge measurement to support clinical work and development of education intervention for Arabic patients.

Effectiveness of Cardiac Rehabilitation Services in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a cost-effective intervention that can reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality by 20%. Despite the clear benefits of CR, it remains unavailable and underutilized. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of different CR models in reducing CVD-related morbidity and mortality in low-and middle-income countries. We conducted a systematic review of studies conducted in low- and middle-income countries that assessed at least one of the three phases of CR (inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient rehabilitation in a hospital, or community setting and maintenance). The primary outcomes of interest were mortality (all-cause and CVD-specific), CVD-related morbidity, functional capacity, risk factor reduction, and quality of life (QoL). The electronic search retrieved 1,102 studies, of which 22 were retrieved and included in the review. These studies were conducted between 2011 and 2022 and the majority (18) were conducted in Asia. All studies except one were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and all except one were conducted at a single site. The target population in most studies (16) included patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Seven studies have incorporated digital technology. Only one study has reported a significant reduction in all-cause mortality. Thirteen studies reported data on functional capacity, and 16 on quality of life (QoL), showing statistically significant improvements. Data on risk factors, anxiety, and depression have shown mixed results. CR is effective in low- and middle-income countries, and strategies to scale it up using locally available resources tailored to the patient population should be adopted.

Development and Evaluation of the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation (ICCPR) Program Certification for Low-Resource Settings

Background

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a proven model of secondary prevention, but new sites, providing quality care, are needed in low-resource settings. This study (1) described the development of International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation's (ICCPR) Program Certification and (2a) tested its implementation, considering (b) appropriateness of quality standards for these settings.

Methods

The Steering Committee finalized 13 standards, requiring 70% be met. They are assessed initially through International CR Registry (ICRR) program survey and patient data; if Certification appears possible, a two-hour virtual site assessment is arranged to corroborate. Standard operating procedures for Assessor training were developed. A multi-method pilot study was then undertaken with a quantitative (description of quality indicators) and qualitative (focus groups on MS Teams) component. ICRR sites with post-program data by April 2022 were invited to participate. Two team members independently analyzed focus group transcripts, using a deductive-thematic approach with NVIVO.

Results

Five CR programs from the Eastern Mediterranean, South-East Asian and American regions participated. Upon application, with some data cleaning, initially four programs were eligible to proceed to virtual site assessment. Ultimately, all five programs were certified, each meeting a minimum of 12/13 standards (peak MET increase and program completion rate were not met by some centres). Four themes resulted from the two focus groups of 13 site data stewards: motivation and benefits (eg, international recognition, additional program resources), logistics (eg, communication, cost, site visit process), the standards and their assessment (eg, balance of rigor and feasibility), and suggestions for improvement (eg, website).

Conclusion

ICCPR's Program Certification has been demonstrated to be feasible, rigorous, and acceptable. Standards are attainable in low-resource settings. Certified programs reap benefits including additional resources. This first international Certification is suitable for low-resource settings, to complement that from the American and European CR Societies.

Women's Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers: Results of the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation's First Global Assessment

BACKGROUND

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs are underutilized globally, especially by women. In this study we investigated sex differences in CR barriers across all world regions, to our knowledge for the first time, the characteristics associated with greater barriers in women, and women's greatest barriers according to enrollment status.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, the English, Simplified Chinese, Arabic, Portuguese, or Korean versions of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale was administered to CR-indicated patients globally via Qualtrics from October 2021 to March 2023. Members of the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation community facilitated participant recruitment. Mitigation strategies were provided and rated.

RESULTS

Participants were 2163 patients from 16 countries across all 6 World Health Organization regions; 916 (42.3%) were women. Women did not report significantly greater total barriers overall, but did in 2 regions (Americas, Western Pacific) and men in 1 (Eastern Mediterranean; all P < 0.001). Women's barriers were greatest in the Western Pacific (2.6 ± 0.4/5) and South East Asian (2.5 ± 0.9) regions (P < 0.001), with lack of CR awareness as the greatest barrier in both. Women who were unemployed reported significantly greater barriers than those not (P < 0.001). Among nonenrolled referred women, the greatest barriers were not knowing about CR, not being contacted by the program, cost, and finding exercise tiring or painful. Among enrolled women, the greatest barriers to session adherence were distance, transportation, and family responsibilities. Mitigation strategies were rated as very helpful (4.2 ± 0.7/5).

CONCLUSIONS

CR barriers-men's and women's-vary significantly according to region, necessitating tailored approaches to mitigation. Efforts should be made to mitigate unemployed women's barriers in particular.

Presentation, care, and outcomes of patients with NSTEMI according to World Bank country income classification: the ACVC-EAPCI EORP NSTEMI Registry of the European Society of Cardiology

BACKGROUND

The majority of NSTEMI burden resides outside high-income countries (HICs). We describe presentation, care, and outcomes of NSTEMI by country income classification.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Prospective cohort study including 2947 patients with NSTEMI from 287 centres in 59 countries, stratified by World Bank country income classification. Quality of care was evaluated based on 12 guideline-recommended care interventions. The all-or-none scoring composite performance measure was used to define receipt of optimal care. Outcomes included in-hospital acute heart failure, stroke/transient ischaemic attack, and death, and 30-day mortality. Patients admitted with NSTEMI in low to lower-middle-income countries (LLMICs), compared with patients in HICs, were younger, more commonly diabetic, and current smokers, but with a lower burden of other comorbidities, and 76.7% met very high risk criteria for an immediate invasive strategy. Invasive coronary angiography use increased with ascending income classification (LLMICs, 79.2%; upper middle income countries [UMICs], 83.7%; HICs, 91.0%), but overall care quality did not (≥80% of eligible interventions achieved: LLMICS, 64.8%; UMICs 69.6%; HICs 55.1%). Rates of acute heart failure (LLMICS, 21.3%; UMICs, 12.1%; HICs, 6.8%; P < 0.001), stroke/transient ischaemic attack (LLMICS: 2.5%; UMICs: 1.5%; HICs: 0.9%; P = 0.04), in-hospital mortality (LLMICS, 3.6%; UMICs: 2.8%; HICs: 1.0%; P < 0.001) and 30-day mortality (LLMICs, 4.9%; UMICs, 3.9%; HICs, 1.5%; P < 0.001) exhibited an inverse economic gradient.

CONCLUSION

Patients with NSTEMI in LLMICs present with fewer comorbidities but a more advanced stage of acute disease, and have worse outcomes compared with HICs. A cardiovascular health narrative is needed to address this inequity across economic boundaries.

The Prevention and Cardiac Rehabilitation Group of the Saudi Heart Association Recommendations Regarding Establishing a Cardiac Rehabilitation Service

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a cornerstone in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation has obtained the highest class of recommendation and the level of evidence for the treatment of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, after myocardial revascularization, with chronic coronary syndromes, and in patients with heart failure (HF). Comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation should be implemented as soon as possible, be multi-phasic, and adjusted to the individual needs of the patient. CR is still suboptimally used, and many cardiac centers do not have such services (2). The provision of CR services should be based on standards and key performance indicators, and guidelines containing a minimum standard of cardiac rehabilitation utilization should be published to improve the quality of the CR program. This document presents an expert opinion that summarizes the current medical knowledge concerning the goals, target population, organization, clinical indications, and implementation methods of the CR program in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Mediterranean Diet Scale (MDS): Translation and validation of the Arabic version

OBJECTIVES

The self-administered version of the Mediterranean Diet Scale (MDS) has been developed to test the inherent characteristics of this dietary pattern in a quick and simple way, due to the need of this assessment in the clinical and research setting. This study aimed to translate and psychometrically validate the self-administered MDS in Arabic (CRBS-A).

METHODS

The original (English) version was originally translated to Arabic, followed by back-translation. Next, 10 healthcare providers, followed by 10 cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients rated the face and content validity (CV) of materials, providing input to improve cross-cultural applicability. Then, 200 patients from Saudi Arabia completed the questionnaire, of which factor structure, internal consistency, criterion and construct validity were assessed.

RESULTS

Content and face validity was supported based on experts and patients' reviews (ranges: CV scores 0.9-1.0/1.0 and clarity 3.5 to 4.5/5). Minor edits were made. Subsequent factor analysis revealed 4 factors consistent with the original version of the instrument, all internally consistent. Total CRBS-A α was 0.74. Criterion validity was confirmed by the significantly higher scores in patients who participated in CR. Construct validity was also established by significant associations between MDS scores and monthly family income, having the diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome or with a history of valve repair or replacement, being obese or having dyslipidemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, these results confirm the validity and reliability of the MDS in Arabic-speaking patients.

Evaluation of counselling materials for hybrid cardiac rehabilitation in a low-resource setting: Perceptions of patients and providers

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the usefulness of a booklet as support material for counseling focused on self-efficacy and therapist interaction in the course of counseling in a hybrid CR program (i.e., supervised and unsupervised sessions) developed for low-resource settings.

METHODS

Counseling material was developed by a multidisciplinary team, with patient input. Using multi-methods, first input from patients from six centers in Chile was sought through a telephone survey (cross-sectional). Second, input from physiotherapists delivering the intervention at all centres was solicited qualitatively through a focus group on Zoom. Content analysis was performed using a deductive-thematic approach.

RESULTS

Seventy-one patients were included. All (100 %) participants responded that the materials were easy to understand, contained suggestions applicable to daily life, captured their attention and was useful for future questions. The booklet overall was rated 6.7 ± 0.6/7 %, and 98.2 % were satisfied with the counselling. Overall themes from the six deliverers related to the CR intervention (e.g., well manualized protocols for counselling), the deliverer (e.g., expertise to deliver) and patients (e.g., found information useful).

CONCLUSION

The usefulness of the counseling together with the supporting booklet was established by patients and delivering professionals.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Thus, with some final refinement, this resource can be disseminated for use by other Spanish CR programs.

Global perspectives on heart disease rehabilitation and secondary prevention: a scientific statement from the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Professions, European Association of Preventive Cardiology, and International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death, morbidity, disability, and reduced health-related quality of life, as well as economic burden worldwide, with some 80% of disease burden occurring in the low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings. With increasing numbers of people living longer with symptomatic disease, the effectiveness and accessibility of secondary preventative and rehabilitative health services have never been more important. Whilst LMICs experience the highest prevalence and mortality rates, the global approach to secondary prevention and cardiac rehabilitation, which mitigates this burden, has traditionally been driven from clinical guidelines emanating from high-income settings. This state-of-the art review provides a contemporary global perspective on cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention, contrasting the challenges of and opportunities for high vs. lower income settings. Actionable solutions to overcome system, clinician, programme, and patient level barriers to cardiac rehabilitation access in LMICs are provided.

Association of admission frailty and frailty changes during cardiac rehabilitation with 5-year outcomes

AIMS

Examine the association between (1) admission frailty and (2) frailty changes during cardiac rehabilitation (CR) with 5-year outcomes (i.e. time to mortality, first hospitalization, first emergency department (ED) visit, and number of hospitalizations, hospital days, and ED visits).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data from patients admitted to a 12-week CR programme in Halifax, Nova Scotia, from May 2005 to April 2015 (n = 3371) were analysed. A 25-item frailty index (FI) estimated frailty levels at CR admission and completion. FI improvements were determined by calculating the difference between admission and discharge FI. CR data were linked to administrative health data to examine 5-year outcomes [due to all causes and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)]. Cox regression, Fine-Gray models, and negative binomial hurdle models were used to determine the association between FI and outcomes. On average, patients were 61.9 (SD: 10.7) years old and 74% were male. Mean admission FI scores were 0.34 (SD: 0.13), which improved by 0.07 (SD: 0.09) by CR completion. Admission FI was associated with time to mortality [HRs/IRRs per 0.01 FI increase: all causes = 1.02(95% CI 1.01,1.04); CVD = 1.03(1.02,1.05)], hospitalization [all causes = 1.02(1.01,1.02); CVD = 1.02(1.01,1.02)], ED visit [all causes = 1.01(1.00,1.01)], and the number of hospitalizations [all causes = 1.02(95% CI 1.01,1.03); CVD = 1.02(1.00,1.04)], hospital days [all causes = 1.01(1.01,1.03)], and ED visits [all causes = 1.02(1.02,1.03)]. FI improvements during CR had a protective effect regarding time to all-cause hospitalization [0.99(0.98,0.99)] but were not associated with other outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Frailty status at CR admission was related to long-term adverse outcomes. Frailty improvements during CR were associated with delayed all-cause hospitalization, in which a larger effect was associated with a greater chance of improved outcome.

Availability and trend of dissemination of cardiac rehabilitation in China: report from the multicenter national registration platform between 2012 and 2021

The study aimed to evaluate the current status of cardiac rehabilitation programs in China by registering and tracking patients undergoing CR programs in the database. Data were extracted from the online registry platform of the China Society of Cardiopulmonary Prevention and Rehabilitation from February 2012 to December 2021. Overall, data on 19,896 patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) from 159 hospitals in 34 provinces of China were extracted. From a time point of view, the number of patients who had undergone CR and institutions that perform CR showed the first decline in 2009 and then increased until 2021. From a geographic point of view, the degree of participation varied greatly among regions, most of which were concentrated in eastern parts of China. A higher population of patients who underwent CR were male, aged less than 60 years, with low-a risk for coronary heart disease (CHD), and tended to choose the hospital-based CR program among all cases registered in the database. The top three diseases in the patients who participated in CR were CHD, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome (MS). Centers with CR were more likely to be tertiary-level hospitals. After adjusting for baseline values, there were significant differences in post-CR exercise capacity among the three groups (home-based CR group, hospital-based CR group, and hybrid CR group), which were in favor of the hybrid CR group compared with other groups. The underutilization of CR is a global issue, not just in China. Despite the number of CR programs showing an increasing trend in the past years, CR in China is still in the preliminary stage of development. Furthermore, the participation of CR in China shows wide diversity across geography, disease, age, sex, risk stratification, and hospital-level factors. These findings reinforce the importance of the implementation of effective measures to improve the participation, enrollment in, and uptake of cardiac rehabilitation.

The talk test as a useful tool to monitor aerobic exercise intensity in healthy population

The talk test (TT) is subjective method to measure exercise intensity in costless and feasible manner, compared to sophisticated laboratory equipment. We attempted to investigate whether the TT was a valid method for evaluation of exercise intensity, by comparing with values derived from various physiologic markers during cardiopulmonary exercise testing on treadmill in healthy population. A total of 17 healthy subjects (12 males and 5 females) participated in this study. The TT was applied, which consisted of 3-stages difficulties demanding respiratory load while they performed the cardiopulmonary exercise testing on treadmill. In each of the TT stages, ergospirometric and psychophysiologic response marker were collected such as heart rate, oxygen consumption, respiratory exchange ratio, minute ventilation, carbon dioxide output, tidal volume, respiratory rate, and rating of perceived exertion of breathing. Statistical analyses revealed a significant difference of all dependent variables in each of three TT stages, comparing with the resting phase before the TT. The TT showed strong correlation coefficient with all variables except for rating of perceived exertion during the resting phase before the TT. According to increase of exercise intensity, all dependent variables showed a linear tendency with the stages of the TT. Our findings indicated that each of the TT stages was strongly correlated with ergospirometric variables as well as psychophysiologic response during cardiopulmonary exercise testing on treadmill. We suggested that the TT can be used to evaluate and prescribe exercise intensity of aerobic activity in cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation settings.

Feasibility of a Virtual Educational Programme for Behaviour Change in Cardiac Patients from a Low-Resource Setting

Patient education is an integral part of recovery from a critical cardiac life event and a core component of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programmes. This study addressed the feasibility of a virtual educational programme for behaviour change in CR patients from a low-resource setting in Brazil. Cardiac patients from a CR programme closed due to the pandemic received a 12-week virtual educational intervention (WhatsApp messages and bi-weekly calls from healthcare providers). Acceptability, demand, implementation, practicality, and limited efficacy were tested. Overall, 34 patients and 8 healthcare providers agreed to participate. The intervention was considered practical and acceptable by the participants, who reported a satisfaction median of 9.0 (7.4-10.0)/10 (patients) and 9.8 (9.6-10.0)/10 (providers). The main difficulties in carrying out the intervention activities were related to technology, motivation to self-learning, and a lack of in-person orientation. All the patients reported that the information included in the intervention was aligned with their information needs. The intervention was associated with changes in exercise self-efficacy, sleep quality, depressive symptoms, and performance of high-intensity physical activity. In conclusion, the intervention was considered feasible to educate cardiac patients from a low-resource setting. It should be replicated and expanded to support patients that face barriers to onsite CR participation. Challenges related to technology and self-learning should be addressed.

A Conceptual Model of Home-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Adherence in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Study

Purpose

This study aimed to explore a conceptual model of home-based cardiac rehabilitation exercise adherence and reveal its internal behavioral logic.

Patients and Methods

A constructivist grounded theory design was adopted to explore the conceptual model of home-based cardiac rehabilitation exercise adherence. Semi-structured interviews were completed to collect qualitative data for constructing the conceptual model. The theoretical saturation and validation strategies were adopted to demonstrate the adequacy of qualitative data. A three-level coding procedure with constant comparisons was completed to analyze this qualitative data.

Results

A total of 21 patients with chronic heart failure were recruited in this study. As a result of this study, 32 initial codes, 12 category codes, and four core categories were extracted, namely, seeking supports, rehabilitation exercise, exercise monitoring and information feedback. According to the internal behavioral logic, the conceptual model of home cardiac rehabilitation exercise adherence was finally formed. In this closed-chain model, seeking supports is the initial adherence behavior, and rehabilitation exercise is the core adherence behavior, and exercise monitoring is the key adherence behavior, and information feedback is the driving adherence behavior.

Conclusion

The conceptual model of home-based cardiac rehabilitation exercise adherence in patients with chronic heart failure was developed, revealing its internal behavioral logic and providing theoretical references for developing relevant clinical research tools with comprehensive coverage and identifying weak links.

Consumption of unprocessed or minimally processed foods and their association with cardiovascular events and cardiometabolic risk factors in Brazilians with established cardiovascular events

Consumption of food in its natural form has an inverse relationship with cardiometabolic risk factors; however, the relationship between consumption of unprocessed or minimally processed foods and the presence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remains unclear in individuals receiving secondary care for CVD. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the association between the consumption of unprocessed or minimally processed foods and the presence of CVD and cardiometabolic risk factors in individuals with established CVD. Baseline data from 2357 participants in a Brazilian multicentre study showed that the consumption of unprocessed or minimally processed foods corresponded to most of the daily caloric intake (69.3%). Furthermore, regression analyses showed that higher consumption of unprocessed or minimally processed foods (>78.0% of caloric intake) was associated with a lower prevalence of elevated waist circumference (WC1; PR: 0.889; CI: 0.822-0.961; WC2; PR: 0.914; CI: 0.873-0.957) and overweight (PR: 0.930; CI: 0.870-0.994), but also was associated with simultaneous occurrence of coronary and peripheral artery disease and stroke (OR: 2.802; CI: 1.241-6.325) when compared with a lower intake (<62.8% of caloric intake). These findings reinforce the importance of nutritional guidance that considers the profile of the target population and the composition and quality of the meals consumed.

Traditional Baduanjin exercise through the eyes of patients with chronic heart failure: A qualitative content analysis study

Objective

Baduanjin (eight silken movements) is a traditional Chinese exercise that can be used as cardiac rehabilitation therapy for patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) especially when other forms of rehabilitation are scarce or unaffordable. This study explores the experiences of Chinese patients with CHF who undertook Baduanjin exercise at home as part of a pilot trial in Guangzhou, China.

Methods

We conducted seven qualitative interviews with participants who had participated in the intervention arm of a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) (n = 8). For data collection, we used a semi-structured interview guide with both open-ended, and follow-up questions. We audio recorded the interviews, transcribed them verbatim, and then analyzed them with content analysis.

Results

Participants' experiences of doing Baduanjin were classified into three categories: (1) improving practice (2) factors facilitating good exercise adherence, and (3) feeling good. Participants reported that the exercises were easy but that the correct Baduanjin execution and coordination between the mind, movements, and breathing were only achievable through practice. In addition, the training benefits which they perceived were the predominant motivation for patients to keep practicing. Finally, trust in Baduanjin, personal attitudes toward health, flexibility in practice times, as well as social support helped the participants to achieve good adherence to home-based training.

Conclusion

This study's findings indicate that Baduanjin could be a cardiac rehabilitation exercise modality for patients with CHF in China, especially in a home-based setting.

Availability and nature of cardiac rehabilitation by province in Iran: A 2018 update of ICCPR's global audit

Background

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is scantly available in Iran, although it is the cost-benefit strategy in cardiac patients, It has not been established how CR is delivered within Iran. This study aimed to determine: (a) availability, density and unmet need for CR, and (b) nature of CR services in Iran by province.

Materials and Methods

In this cross-sectional sub-study of the global CR audit, program availability was determined through cardiovascular networks. An online survey was then disseminated to these programs in June 2016-2017 which assessed capacity and characteristics; a paper-based survey was disseminated in 2018 to nonresponding and any new programs. CR density and need was computed based on annual incidence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in each province.

Results

Of the 31 provinces, 12 (38.7%) had CR services. There were 30 programs nationally, all in capital cities; of these, programs in 9 (75.0%) provinces, specifically 22 (73.3%) programs, participated. The national CR density is 1 spot per 7 incident AMI patients/year. Unmet need is greatest in Khuzestan, Tehran and west Azerbaijan, with 44,816 more spots needed/year. Most programs assessed cardiovascular risk factors, and offered comprehensive services, delivered by a multi-disciplinary team, comprised chiefly of nurses, dietitians and cardiologists. Median dose is 14 sessions/program in supervised programs. A third of programs offered home-based services.

Conclusion

Where programs do exist in IRAN, they are generally delivered in accordance with guidelines. Therefore, we must increase capacity in CR services in all provinces to improve secondary prevention services.

Health-related information needs and preferences for information of individuals with cardiovascular disease from underserved populations: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review aimed to identify the information needs and preferences of individuals with CVD from underserved populations.

METHODS

Five databases were searched from data inception to February 2022. Pilot and case report studies, non-peer-reviewed literature, and studies published in a language other than English, Portuguese, or Spanish were excluded. Structured and thematic analysis of all included studies were performed. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program and the Downs and Black Checklist were used to assess the quality of the qualitative and quantitative studies, respectively.

RESULTS

Of 35,698 initial records, 19 studies were included, most in observational design and classified as "fair" quality. Underserved populations - women, people living in rural areas, ethnic minority groups, older people, and those with low socioeconomic status - presented unique needs in four main groups, with some similarities across them: information about CVD, primary and secondary prevention of CVD, CVD management, and health care, policies and practices. Across the studies there was a lack of standardization on how individuals' needs were assessed and reported.

CONCLUSION

Underserved populations with CVD have unique information needs and preferences that should be address during their care.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATION

Information from this study may assist health care professionals with the development of comprehensive strategies to improve their provision of care for specific CVD patient groups.

Women-Focused Cardiovascular Rehabilitation: An International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation Clinical Practice Guideline

Women-focused cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR; phase II) aims to better engage women, and might result in better quality of life than traditional programs. This first clinical practice guideline by the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation (ICCPR) provides guidance on how to deliver women-focused programming. The writing panel comprised experts with diverse geographic representation, including multidisciplinary health care providers, a policy-maker, and patient partners. The guideline was developed in accordance with Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II and the Reporting Items for practice Guidelines in HealTh care (RIGHT). Initial recommendations were on the basis of a meta-analysis. These were circulated to a Delphi panel (comprised of corresponding authors from review articles and of programs delivering women-focused CR identified through ICCPR's audit; N = 76), who were asked to rate each on a 7-point Likert scale in terms of impact and implementability (higher scores positive). A Web call was convened to achieve consensus; 15 panelists confirmed strength of revised recommendations (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation [GRADE]). The draft underwent external review from CR societies internationally and was posted for public comment. The 14 drafted recommendations related to referral (systematic, encouragement), setting (model choice, privacy, staffing), and delivery (exercise mode, psychosocial, education, self-management empowerment). Nineteen (25.0%) survey responses were received. For all but 1 recommendation, ≥ 75% voted to include; implementability ratings were < 5/7 for 4 recommendations, but only 1 for effect. Ultimately 1 recommendation was excluded, 1 separated into 2 and all revised (2 substantively); 1 recommendation was added. Overall, certainty of evidence for the final recommendations was low to moderate, and strength mostly strong. These recommendations and associated tools can support all programs to feasibly offer some women-focused programming.

Qualitative study measuring the usability of the International Cardiac Rehabilitation Registry

OBJECTIVE

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a comprehensive model of secondary preventive care. There is a wide variety in implementation characteristics globally, and hence quality control is paramount. Thus, the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation was urged to develop a CR registry. The purpose of this study was to test the perceived usability of the International Cardiac Rehabilitation Registry (ICRR) to optimise it.

DESIGN

This was a qualitative study, comprising virtual usability tests using a think-aloud method to elicit feedback on the ICRR, while end-users were entering patient data, followed by semistructured interviews.

SETTING

Ultimately, 12 tests were conducted with CR staff (67% female) in low-resource settings from a variety of disciplines in all regions of the world but Europe before saturation was achieved.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE

Participants completed the System Usability Scale. Interviews were transcribed verbatim except to preserve anonymity, and coded using NVIVO by two researchers independently. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 informed analysis.

RESULTS

The ICRR was established as easy to use, relevant, efficient, with easy learnability, operability, perceived usefulness, positive perceptions of output quality and high end-user satisfaction. System usability was 83.75, or 'excellent' and rated 'A'. Four major themes were deduced from the interviews: (1) ease of approvals, adoption and implementation; (2) benefits for programmes, (3) variables and their definitions, as well as (4) patient report and follow-up assessment. Based on participant observation and utterances, suggestions for changes to the ICRR were implemented, including to the programme survey, on-boarding processes, navigational instructions, inclusion of programme logos, direction on handling unavailable data and optimising data completeness, as well as policies for authorship and programme certification.

CONCLUSIONS

With usability of the ICRR optimised, pilot testing shall ensue.

Trends in cardiac rehabilitation enrollment post-coronary artery bypass grafting upon implementation of automatic referral in Southeast Asia: A retrospective cohort study

Introduction: Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an effective but underutilized intervention. Strategies have been identified to increase its use, but there is paucity of data testing them in low-resource settings. We sought to determine the effect of automatic referral post-coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery on CR enrollment.

Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study assessing cardiac patients referred to CR at a tertiary center in Southeast Asia from 2013 to 2019. The paper-based pathway was introduced at the end of 2012. The checklist with automatic CR referral on the third day post-operation prompted a nurse to educate the patient about CR, initiate phase 1 and encourage enrollment in phase 2. Patients who were not eligible for the pathway for administrative or clinical reasons were referred at the discretion of the attending physician (i.e., usual care). Enrollment was defined as attendance at≥1 CR visit.

Results: Of 4792 patients referred during the study period, 394 enrolled in CR. Significantly more patients referred automatically enrolled compared to usual care (225 [11.8%] vs. 169 [5.8%]; OR=2.2, 95% CI=1.8-2.7), with increases up to 23.4% enrollment in 2014 (vs. average enrollment rate of 5.9% under usual referral). Patients who enrolled following automatic referral were significantly younger and more often employed (both P<0.001); no other differences were observed.

Conclusion: In a lower-resource, Southeast Asian setting, automatic CR referral is associated with over two times greater enrollment in phase 2 CR, although efforts to maintain this effect are required.

Outcomes and cost of women-focused cardiac rehabilitation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the effects of women-focused cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on patient outcomes and cost.

METHODS

Medline, PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus and Emcare were searched for articles from inception through to May 2020. Primary studies of any design were included, with adult females with any cardiac diseases. "Women-focused" CR comprised programs or sessions with >50% females, or 1-1 programming tailored to women's preferences. No studies were excluded on the basis of outcome. Two independent reviewers rated citations for potential inclusion, and one extracted data, including on quality, which was checked independently. Random-effects meta-analysis was used where there were ≥3 trials with the same outcome; certainty of evidence for these was determined based on GRADE. For other outcomes, SWiM was applied.

RESULTS

3498 unique citations were identified, of which 28 studies (52 papers) were included (3,697 participants; 11 trials). No meta-analysis could be performed for outcomes with "usual care" comparisons. Compared to "active comparison" group, women-focused CR had no meaningful additional effect on functional capacity. Women-focused CR meaningfully improved physical (mean difference [MD]=6.37, 95% confidence interval [CI]=3.14-9.59; I2=0%; moderate-quality evidence) and mental (MD=4.66, 95% CI=0.21-9.11; I2=36%; low-quality evidence) quality of life, as well as scores on seven of the eight SF-36 domains. Qualitatively, results showed women-focused CR was associated with lower morbidity, risk factors, and greater psychosocial well-being. No effect was observed for mortality. One study reported a favorable economic impact and another reported reduced sick days.

CONCLUSIONS

Women-focused CR is associated with clinical benefit, although there is mixed evidence and more research is needed.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION

CRD42020189760.

Building Capacity Through ICCPR Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Foundations Certification (CRFC): EVALUATION OF REACH, BARRIERS, AND IMPACT

PURPOSE

The International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation (ICCPR) developed an online Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Foundations Certification (CRFC; https://globalcardiacrehab.com/Certification) in October 2017, to build cardiac rehabilitation (CR) delivery capacity in low-resource settings based on their guidelines. Herein we evaluate its reach globally, barriers to its completion, as well as satisfaction and impact of the course among those completing it.

METHODS

The country of origin of all applicants was tallied. An online survey was developed for learners who completed the CRFC (completers), and for those who applied but did not yet complete the program (noncompleters), administered using Google Forms.

RESULTS

With regard to reach, 236 applications were received from 23/203 (11%) countries in the world; 51 (22%) were from low- or middle-income countries. A total of 130 (55%) have completed the CRFC; mean scores on the final examination were 88.3 ± 7.1%, with no difference by country income classification (P= .052). Sixteen (22%) noncompleters and 37 (34%) completers responded to the survey. Barriers reported by noncompleters were time constraints, cost, and technical issues. Overall satisfaction (scale 1-5) with the CRFC was high (4.49 ± 0.51); most completers would highly recommend the CRFC to others (4.30 ± 0.66), and perceived that the information provided will contribute to their work and/or the care of their patients (4.38 ± 0.89); 29 (78%) had used the information from the CRFC in their practice.

CONCLUSIONS

The reach of the CRFC still needs to be broadened, in particular in low-resource settings. Learners are highly satisfied with the certification, and its impacts on CR practice are encouraging. Input has been implemented to improve the CRFC.

Identifying Feasible Heart Failure Interventions Suitable for the Jordan Healthcare system: A Delphi Study

Interventions and strategies should align with the context and capacity of the health system. Identifying the most feasible and appropriate heart failure interventions in Jordan will improve heart failure management and clinical outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to derive consensus from clinicians (using the Delphi method) regarding the most feasible and appropriate heart failure interventions in Jordan. A two-round Delphi study involving seven clinicians and policy makers were conducted. The Delphi results found consensus for the feasibility of the educational materials, follow up phone call, cardiac rehabilitation, group session, and training courses for staff. The components that were not feasible were: multidisciplinary team, individual session, and telemonitoring devices. The present study demonstrates the importance of utilizing interventions tailored to patients' characteristics and aligned with the capacity of healthcare system.

Evaluation of an Online Course in 5 Languages for Inpatient Cardiac Care Providers on Promoting Cardiac Rehabilitation: REACH, EFFECTS, AND SATISFACTION

PURPOSE

Evidence proves that health care providers should promote cardiac rehabilitation (CR) to patients face-to-face to increase CR enrollment. An online course was designed to promote this at the bedside; it is evaluated herein in terms of reach, effect on knowledge, attitudes, discussion self-efficacy and practices, and satisfaction.

METHODS

Design was observational, one-group pre- and post-test. Some demographics were requested from learners taking all language versions of the 20-min course: English, Portuguese, French, Spanish, and simplified Chinese, available at: https://globalcardiacrehab.com/CR-Utilization. Investigator-generated items in the pre- and post-test and evaluation survey administered using Google Forms were based on Kirkpatrick's training evaluation model.

RESULTS

The course was initiated by 522 learners from 33 of 203 (16%) countries; most commonly female (n = 341, 65%) nurses (n = 180, 34%) from high-income countries (n = 259, 57%) completing the English (n = 296, 57%) and Chinese (n = 108, 21%) versions. A total of 414 (79%) learners completed the post-test and 302 (58%) completed the evaluation. Median CR attitudes were 5 of 5 on the Likert scale at pre-test, suggesting some selection bias. Mean CR knowledge ([7.22 ± 2.14]/10), discussion self-efficacy ([3.86 ± 0.85]/5), and practice ([4.13 ± 1.11]/5) significantly improved after completion of the course (all P < .001). Satisfaction was high regardless of language version ([4.44 ± 0.64]/5; P = .593).

CONCLUSIONS

This free, open-access course is effective in increasing CR knowledge, self-efficacy, and encouragement practices among participating inpatient cardiac providers, with high satisfaction. While testing impact on actual CR use is needed, it should be more broadly disseminated to increase reach, in an effort to increase patient enrollment in CR, to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Examining Facilitators and Barriers to Cardiac Rehabilitation Adherence in a Low-Resource Setting in Latin America from Multiple Perspectives

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is under-used, particularly in low-resource settings. There are few studies of barriers and facilitators to CR adherence in these settings, particularly considering multiple perspectives. In this multiple-method study, a cross-sectional survey including the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale (each item scored on a five-point Likert scale) was administered to patients treated between February and July, 2019, in three CR centers in Colombia. A random subsample of 50 participants was invited to a focus group, along with an accompanying relative. Physiotherapists from the programs were invited to an interview, with a similar interview guide. Audio-recordings were transcribed and analyzed using interpretive description. A total of 210 patients completed the survey, and 9 patients, together with 3 of their relatives and 3 physiotherapists, were interviewed. The greatest barriers identified were costs (mean = 2.8 ± 1.6), distance (2.6 ± 1.6) and transportation (2.5 ± 1.6); the logistical subscale was highest. Six themes were identified, pertaining to well-being, life roles, weather, financial factors, healthcare professionals and health system factors. The main facilitators were encouragement from physiotherapists, relatives and other patients. The development of hybrid programs where patients transition from supervised to unsupervised sessions when appropriate should be considered, if health insurers were to reimburse them. Programs should consider the implications regarding policies of family inclusion.

Development of the International Cardiac Rehabilitation Registry Including Variable Selection and Definition Process

Introduction:

The International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation (ICCPR) is developing a registry (ICRR) specifically for low-resource settings, where the burden of cardiovascular diseases is greatest and the need for program development highest. Herein we describe the development process, including the variable selection process.

Method:

Following a literature search on registry best practices, a stepwise model for ICRR development was identified. Then, based on recommendations by Core Outcome Set-STAndards for Development (COS-STAD), we underwent a process to identify variables. All available CR registries were contacted to request their data dictionaries, reviewed CR quality indicators and guideline recommendations, and searched for common data elements and core outcome sets; 35 unique variables (including patient-reported outcomes) were selected for potential inclusion. Twenty-one purposively-identified stakeholders and experts agreed to serve on a Delphi panel. Panelists rated the variables in an online survey, and suggested potential additional variables; A webcall was held to reach consensus on which to include/exclude. Next, panelists provided input to finalize each variable definition, and rated which associated indicators should be used for benchmarking in registry dashboards and a patient lay summary; a second consensus call was held. A 1-month public comment period ensued.

Results:

First, registry objectives and governance were approved by ICCPR, including data quality and access policies. The protocol was developed, for public posting. For variable selection, the overall mean rating was 6.1 ± 0.3/7; 12 were excluded, some of which were moved to a program survey, and others were revised. Two variables were added in an annual follow-up, resulting in 13 program and 16 patient-reported variables. Legal advice was sought to finalize ICRR agreements. Ethics approvals were obtained. Usability testing is now being initiated.

Conclusion:

It is hoped this will serve to harmonize CR assessment internationally and enable quality improvement in CR delivery in low-resource settings.

Effects of cardiac rehabilitation in low-and middle-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), given previous reviews have included scant trials from these settings and the great need there.

METHODS

Six electronic databases (PubMed, Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and APA PsycINFO) were searched from inception-May 2020. Randomised controlled CR (i.e., at least initial assessment and structured exercise; any setting; some Phase II) trials with any clinical outcomes (e.g., mortality and morbidity, functional capacity, risk factor control and psychosocial well-being) or cost, with usual care (UC) control or active comparison (AC), in acute coronary syndrome with or without revascularization or heart failure patients in LMICs were included. With regard to data extraction and data synthesis, two reviewers independently vetted identified citations and extracted data from included trials; Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane's tool. Certainty of evidence was ascertained based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework. A random-effects model was used to calculate weighted mean differences and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

Twenty-six trials (6380 participants; 16.9% female; median follow-up = 3 months) were included. CR meaningfully improved functional capacity (VO2peak vs UC: 5 trials; mean difference [MD] = 3.13 ml/kg/min, 95% CI = 2.61 to 3.65; I2 = 9.0%); moderate-quality evidence), systolic blood pressure (vs UC: MD = -5.29 mmHg, 95% CI = -8.12 to -2.46; I2 = 45%; low-quality evidence), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (vs UC: MD = -16.55 mg/dl, 95% CI = -29.97 to -3.14; I2 = 74%; very low-quality evidence), body mass index (vs AC: MD = -0.84 kg/m2, 95% CI = -1.61 to -0.07; moderate-quality evidence; I2 = 0%), and quality of life (QoL; vs UC; SF-12/36 physical: MD = 6.05, 95% CI = 1.77 to 10.34; I2 = 93%, low-quality evidence; mental: MD = 5.38, 95% CI = 1.13 to 9.63; I2 = 84%; low-quality evidence), among others. There were no evidence of effects on mortality or morbidity. Qualitative analyses revealed CR was associated with lower percutaneous coronary intervention, myocardial infarction, better cardiovascular function, and biomarkers, as well as return to life roles; there were other non-significant effects. Two studies reported low cost of home-based CR.

CONCLUSIONS

Low to moderate-certainty evidence establishes CR as delivered in LMICs improves functional capacity, risk factor control and QoL. While more high-quality research is needed, we must augment access to CR in these settings.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO (CRD42020185296).

Knowledge, attitudes and practices survey of cardiac rehabilitation among cardiologists and cardiac surgeons in Lebanon

Background

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Over three quarters of the cardiovascular deaths take place in low and middle-income countries. Despite the benefits, Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) is still not routinely and not universally available. Numerous studies have found that barriers to access to CR are correlated with providers, patients and environment characteristics. This first national survey on CR in Lebanon assesses the knowledge, attitudes and practices among physicians. In addition, the study identifies what the main barriers to access to CR are and provides suggestions for the implementation of CR in the country.

Results

The response rate was 41.5% (n = 83). Results show that the cardiologists have medium level of knowledge about CR and its multidisciplinary content. Physicians support the implementation of a comprehensive CR program in the country. 50% of the physicians recommended first to solve the financial issues before implementing a CR program. Supplementary learning about the benefits of CR is highly recommended to enroll more patients with CVD into CR. In addition, the lack of specialists in the field, lack of motivation for patients to enroll to CR and inconvenient location of the rehabilitation centers were identified as major barriers by the respondents.

Conclusions

The role of physicians in promoting patient enrolment should be optimized and exploited in the country. The access barriers identified can help to develop CR programs and to improve CR referral and enrolment rates. Funds from private parties and a budget from the government are needed to launch new CR programs in the country. Further research is needed to provide evidence on the CR benefits in Lebanon and to motivate policy-makers to place priority on the establishment of a comprehensive CR program in the country.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s43044-021-00212-2.