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BackgroundSocial distancing from the COVID-19 pandemic may have decreased engagement in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) and may have had possible consequences on post-CR exercise maintenance. The increased use of technology as an adaptation may benefit post-CR participants via wearables and social media. Thus, we sought to explore the possible relationships of both the pandemic and technology on post-CR exercise maintenance.ObjectiveThis study aimed to (1) understand CR participation during the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) identify perceived barriers and facilitators to physical activity after CR completion, and (3) assess willingness to use technology and social media to support physical activity needs among older adults with cardiovascular disease.MethodsWe recruited participants aged 55 years and older in 3 different CR programs offered at both public and private hospitals in Northern California. We conducted individual interviews on CR experiences, physical activity, and potential for using technology. We used thematic analysis to synthesize the data.ResultsIn total, 22 participants (n=9, 41% female participants; mean age 73, SD 8 years) completed in-depth interviews. Themes from participants' feedback included the following: (1) anxiety and frustration about the wait for CR caused by COVID-19 conditions, (2) positive and safe participant experience once in CR during the pandemic, (3) greater attention needed to patients after completion of CR, (4) notable demand for technology during the pandemic and after completion of CR, and (5) social media networking during the CR program considered valuable if training is provided.ConclusionsIndividuals who completed CR identified shared concerns about continuing physical activity despite having positive experiences during the CR program. There were significant challenges during the pandemic and heightened concerns for safety and health. The idea of providing support by leveraging digital technology (wearable devices and social media for social support) resonated as a potential solution to help bridge the gap from CR to more independent physical activity. More attention is needed to help individuals experience a tailored and safe transition to home to maintain physical activity among those who complete CR.

BackgroundBreast cancer survivors are disproportionately at risk for cardiovascular disease; exercise-based interventions may improve cardiovascular health. The objective of this formative research is to better understand the needs of patients and barriers to participation in an adapted cardiac rehabilitation program for diverse breast cancer survivors in an urban safety net setting.MethodsWe recruited 30 participants (10 English-speaking, 10 Spanish-speaking, and 10 Cantonese-speaking) who had received treatment with curative intent for breast cancer from an urban safety net hospital between November 9, 2021, to August 30, 2022. Participants completed surveys and interviews about perspectives on health behaviors and participating in an adapted cardiac rehabilitation program. Interviews were qualitatively analyzed using rapid template analysis with pre-selected constructs from the Theory of Planned Behavior, Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, and Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, as well as emergent codes. We developed a Participant User Journey for a program based on responses and conducted human-centered design sessions with 8 participants to iteratively revise the Participant User Journey.ResultsAmong 30 participants, mean age was 56.7 years (standard deviation [SD] 10.2) with 100% female sex assigned at birth; 1 participant withdrew before completing study procedures. Most participants had limited health literacy (18/29, 62%). Mean body mass index was 31.4 (SD 8.3), 21/29 (72%) had blood pressure below 140/90 mmHg, and 12/29 (41%) had blood pressure below 130/80. Mean 6-minute walk distance was 384.9 meters (SD 78.3). The desired benefits of a program included healthy living and prevention of cancer recurrence. Barriers to participation included motivation, social support, transportation, and concerns about exercise safety. Participants emphasized the need for practicality, such as fitting physical activity into daily life and nutrition support, including recipes and shopping lists. Trusted experts and cultural and language concordance were viewed as important aspects of the program.ConclusionsThrough participant interviews and human-centered design sessions, we developed the HEART-ACT program, a 12-week multi-disciplinary program addressing physical activity, nutrition, emotional well-being, cardiovascular risk, survivorship, and other components if indicated (e.g., tobacco cessation). Future research will test the effects of this program on patient-centered outcomes.

Background: Psychological difficulties are prevalent in patients undergoing Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR). Recent guidelines recommend that practitioners inquire and address patients' psychological concerns during CR. Therefore, Study One aimed to explore practitioners' understanding of patients' psychological needs, their confidence in supporting those needs, and their views on whether current CR meets patients' needs. Study Two aimed to validate Study Ones' findings among a wider sample of CR practitioners. Methods: This study consisted of two interrelated qualitative interviews. Study One utilised qualitative interview data from the PATHWAY trial (REC Reference:15/NW/0163), while Study Two utilised new interview data collected as part of the PATHWAY Beacons study (REC Reference: 22/HRA/2220). In Study One semi-structured interviews with six CR practitioners were analysed using thematic analysis. In Study Two, 11 CR practitioners across England were interviewed using member-checking principles. Transcripts were coded systematically using the codes developed in Study One and, through constant comparative analysis. Results: Four main themes were identified: staff's awareness of mental health problems, CR patients' needs, staff's self-efficacy to support patients' psychological needs, and current psychological provision in CR. The main themes and 11 subthemes were transferable to a wider range of CR practitioners, thereby indicating the trustworthiness of the findings. Conclusion: Practitioners described that patients experience a range of psychological concerns, including adjustment difficulties, anxiety, and cardiac and noncardiac worries. Most practitioners normalise patient concerns and offer relaxation techniques. However, practitioners have noted that patients often have complex psychological needs, but practitioners' confidence in discussing and supporting psychological concerns varies. Practitioners expressed the need for training to support patients' psychological needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cognitive impairment and cardiovascular disease often coexist, and nurses are ideally positioned to detect and manage cognitive impairment in cardiac patients.Objectives: This study explored nurses' perspectives on understanding, detecting, and acting on cognitive impairment in cardiac patients.Design and Methods: Using an exploratory descriptive design, nurses from acute and outpatient cardiac units were interviewed. Data were thematically analyzed.Results: Sixteen nurses were interviewed, working in acute cardiology (n=7), cardiothoracic and intensive care (n=4), and cardiac rehabilitation (n=5). Three themes emerged: (1) Cognitive screening was not routine, with no clear protocols on who, when, and how to screen; (2) Nurses had varying understanding of cognitive impairment, dementia, and delirium; (3) Nurses acted on suspected cognitive changes to ensure patient safety, including referrals and care modifications.Conclusions: Cognitive screening was inconsistent, with barriers, such as workload and lack of education. Guidelines for feasible screening across settings are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac rehabilitation is crucial for the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death worldwide. In Japan, as hospitalization periods have been shortened due to advances in medical technology and government policies, outpatient rehabilitation focused on lifestyle and physical activity (PA) is becoming increasingly important as hospital stays shorten. This study was aimed to identify patient characteristics that define the different types of PA and sedentary behaviors, and patient factors in 92 Japanese outpatients by using accelerometers. The patients were found to spend considerable time being sedentary (663.7 ± 118.1 min/day) and very little time engaging in moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA, 25.6 (10.6–43.4) min/day). Regression analysis revealed that the daily duration of sedentary behavior was 64 min longer in men than in women (β = 64.2, 95% CI[12.9, 115], p = 0.015); furthermore, men engaged in 22% less light PA (β = -0.245, 95% CI[-0.388, -0.102], p = 0.001). Additionally, MVPA increased by 43% for every 1 metabolic equivalent (MET) task increase in the anaerobic threshold (AT) (β = 0.367, 95% CI[0.035, 0.698], p = 0.031) but decreased by 3% per year of age(β = -0.035, 95% CI[-0.056, -0.015], p < 0.001). The study also found that body mass index (BMI) was negatively correlated with walking time (β = -0.039, 95% CI[-0.075, -0.003], p = 0.036), while AT was positively correlated with MVPA (β = 0.367, 95% CI[0.035, 0.698], p = 0.031) but negatively correlated with time above the AT (β = -2.06, 95% CI[-2.53, -1.59], p < 0.001). These results emphasize the importance of customizing rehabilitation programs according to sex, age, BMI, and AT differences. Furthermore, monitoring home activities and providing individualized prescriptions may enhance the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims INTERASPIRE is an international study of coronary heart disease (CHD) patients, designed to measure if guideline standards for secondary prevention and cardiac rehabilitation are being achieved in a timely manner. Methods Between 2020 and 2023, adults hospitalized in the preceding 6–24 months with incident or recurrent CHD were sampled in 14 countries from all 6 World Health Organization regions and invited for a standardized interview and examination. Direct age and sex standardization was used for country-level prevalence estimation. Results Overall, 4548 (21.1% female) CHD patients were interviewed a median of 1.05 (interquartile range.76–1.45) years after index hospitalization. Among all participants, 24.6% were obese (40.7% centrally). Only 38.6% achieved a blood pressure (BP) < 130/80 mmHg and 16.6% a LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) of <1.4 mmol/L. Of those smoking at hospitalization, 48% persisted at interview. Of those with known diabetes, 55.2% achieved glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) of <7.0%. A further 9.8% had undetected diabetes and 26.9% impaired glucose tolerance. Females were less likely to achieve the targets: BP (females 36.8%, males 38.9%), LDL-C (females 12.0%, males 17.9%), and HbA1c in diabetes (females 47.7%, males 57.5%). Overall, just 9.0% (inter-country range 3.8%–20.0%) reported attending cardiac rehabilitation and 1.0% (inter-country range.0%–2.4%) achieved the study definition of optimal guideline adherence. Conclusions INTERASPIRE demonstrates inadequate and heterogeneous international implementation of guideline standards for secondary prevention in the first year after CHD hospitalization, with geographic and sex disparity. Investment aimed at reducing between-country and between-individual variability in secondary prevention will promote equity in global efforts to reduce the burden of CHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the effect of Internet+cardiac rehabilitation on hypertension patients with coronary heart disease. Methods 80 patients with hypertension and coronary heart disease admitted to our hospital from January 2022 to April 2023 were randomly divided into the combined group (n = 40) and the conventional group (n = 40). Both groups were given routine cardiac rehabilitation interventions. The combined group combined adoptionof the Internet for continuous interventionson the basis of routine cardiac rehabilitation interventions. Compare the oxygen uptake, blood pressure, compliance, and self-management scores between two groups before intervention and three months after discharge. Results The AT Mets, AT VO2, peak VO2, and expected value compliance ratio in the combined group were all higher than those in the conventional group (P < 0.05) ; The systolic and diastolic blood pressure in the combination group were lower than those in the control group, and the proportion of complete compliance was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05); The self-management scores of the joint group were higher than those of the conventional group (P < 0.05). Conclusion The continuous interventions of Internet plus cardiac rehabilitation can control the blood pressure of patients with hypertension and coronary heart disease, and patients' compliance behavior is significantly improved, andthus improving patients' self-management ability, which can be used for reference and promotion in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusions Trial Registration This study examines the perspectives of individuals with coronary heart disease (CHD) on a nurse‐led eHealth cardiac rehabilitation (NeCR) program, which included a website, tele‐monitoring device, and social media chatroom.Using a descriptive qualitative approach, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 18 participants to capture their feedback and experiences with the NeCR program.Participants found the NeCR program valuable in addressing gaps in cardiac rehabilitation services in China, empowering them to make behavioral changes and enhancing their social motivation. However, they also highlighted the need for a more user‐friendly website, better symptom management during exercise, and stronger privacy protections in the peer networking chatroom. The study concludes that the NeCR program is feasible in providing accessible rehabilitative services at home post‐discharge. Recommendations include improving the self‐monitoring platform for ease of use, incorporating immediate symptom management guidance during exercise, and ensuring a secure environment for online peer support.These findings offer crucial insights for developing patient‐centered eHealth cardiac rehabilitation services, emphasizing the importance of user‐friendly design, effective symptom management features, and privacy protection in promoting participant engagement with e‐platforms.ChiCTR1800020411 (http://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojen.aspx?proj=33906) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the known benefits of cardiac rehabilitation (CR), the rate of participation is low following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). The reasons for this lack of participation are unclear and there have been few studies investigating this, particularly in Asian countries. The present study aimed to address this lack of information and identify reasons for non-participation in phase-2 CR among patients who underwent CABG. Methods: We enrolled 42 patients who underwent CABG or CABG combined with valvular heart surgery in a university hospital between October 2016 to September 2018. Patients who participated in phase-1 but not phase-2 CR were interviewed by phone following an 11-item questionnaire. Results: The rate of participation in phase-2 CR was only 12.5%. The most frequently reported reason for non-participation was "Did not know that there was phase-2 CR" (61.9%), followed by "Transportation problems" (31%). "Unable to take leave due to work schedule" was fairly frequently reported (19%) as was "Did not participate due to chronic diseases and complications" (14.3%). Conclusion: Our study revealed low participation in phase-2 CR, despite its well-known benefits. The primary reason identified was a lack of awareness and understanding among patients regarding phase-2 CR. This highlights the need for targeted interventions aimed at increasing knowledge and awareness of the benefits and availability of CR. Additionally, it is crucial to establish an efficient referral system that ensures seamless transitions from the initial cardiac treatment to the rehabilitation phase. Implementing these strategies is expected to boost CR participation, leading to improved patient outcomes and overall cardiac health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: Coronary artery aneurysm (CAA), marked by diffuse or localized dilation of artery, can cause life‐threatening complications in acute coronary syndrome. This report presents a case of CAA combined with acute ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction, successfully treated with cardiac rehabilitation exercise therapy, offering insights for clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: The rate of force development (RFD), which is the change in force over a period of time during muscle contraction, quantifies rapid muscle contractions. RFD may serve as a measure of physical rehabilitation in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD); however, its reliability and validity in older patients remain unclear. This study examined the reliability and validity of quadricep RFD in older patients with CVD. Methods: This prospective study enrolled 30 outpatients undergoing cardiac rehabilitation (median age, 77 years) and 30 inpatients hospitalized for CVD (median age, 76 years). The quadricep RFD values at three time points (RFD50, 0–50 ms; RFD100, 0–100 ms; and RFD200, 0–200 ms) were calculated from the slope of the force–time curve. Physical performance was assessed using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Intra- and inter-rater correlation coefficients were assessed for outpatients. The correlation coefficients between RFD values and physical performance indicators were assessed separately for outpatients and inpatients. Results: The intraclass correlation coefficients (1,1) and (2,1) for RFD50, RFD100, and RFD200 were 0.742, 0.893, and 0.873 and 0.810, 0.918, and 0.930, respectively. The correlation coefficients for SPPB with RFD50, RFD100, and RFD200 were 0.553, 0.547, and 0.597 (all p < 0.05), respectively, for inpatients; similar moderate correlations were observed for gait speed and the chair stand test. Conclusions: The test–retest reliability of the RFD was excellent in older patients with CVD. The RFD was positively correlated with physical function indicators, suggesting its validity as a measure of physical rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise is safe and beneficial in atrial fibrillation (AF) and coronary heart disease (CHD). Irregular or rapid heart rates (HR) in AF and other heart conditions create a challenge to using HR to monitor exercise intensity. The purpose of this study was to assess the potential of breathing frequency (BF) to monitor exercise intensity in people with AF and CHD without AF. Methods: This observational study included 30 AF participants (19 Male, 70.7 ± 8.7 yrs) and 67 non-AF CHD participants (38 Male, 56.9 ± 11.4 yrs). All performed an incremental maximal exercise test with pulmonary gas exchange. Results: Peak aerobic power in AF ( V ˙ O2peak; 17.8 ± 5.0 ml.kg−1.min−1) was lower than in CHD (26.7 ml.kg−1.min−1) (p <.001). BF responses in AF and CHD were similar (BF peak: AF 34.6 ± 5.4 and CHD 36.5 ± 5.0 breaths.min−1; p =.106); at the 1st ventilatory threshold (BF@VT-1: AF 23.2 ± 4.6; CHD 22.4 ± 4.6 breaths.min−1; p =.240). % V ˙ O2peak at VT-1 were similar in AF and CHD (AF: 59%; CHD: 57%; p =.656). Conclusion: With the use of wearable technologies on the rise, that now include BF, this first study provides an encouraging potential for BF to be used in AF and CHD. As the supporting data are based on incremental ramp protocol results, further research is required to assess BF validity to manage exercise intensity during longer bouts of exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) can reduce mortality and improve physical functioning in older patients, but current programs do not support the needs of older patients with comorbidities or frailty, for example due to transport problems and physical limitations. Home-exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (HEBCR) programs may better meet these needs, but physiotherapy guidelines for personalising HEBCR for older, frail patients with cardiovascular disease are lacking. Purpose: To provide expert recommendations for physiotherapists on how to administer HEBCR to older adults with comorbidities or frailty. Methods: This Delphi study involved a panel of Dutch experts in physiotherapy, exercise physiology, and cardiology. Three Delphi rounds were conducted between December 2020 and February 2022. In the first round panellists provided expertise on applicability and adaptability of existing CR-guidelines. In the second round panellists ranked the importance of statements about HEBCR for older adults. In the third round panellists re-ranked statements when individual scores were outside the semi-interquartile range. Consensus was defined as a semi-interquartile range of ≤ 1.0. Results: Of 20 invited panellists, 11 (55%) participated. Panellists were clinical experts with a median (interquartile range) work experience of 20 (10.5) years. The panel reached a consensus on 89% of statements, identifying key topics such as implementing the patient perspective, assessing comorbidity and frailty barriers to exercise, and focusing on personal goals and preferences. Conclusion: This Delphi study provides recommendations for personalised HEBCR for older, frail patients with cardiovascular disease, which can improve the effectiveness of CR-programs and address the needs of this patient population. Prioritising interventions aimed at enhancing balance, lower extremity strength, and daily activities over interventions targeting exercise capacity may contribute to a more holistic and effective approach, particularly for older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Exercise fear and low exercise self-efficacy are common in patients attending cardiac rehabilitation (CR). This study tested whether exercise prescription methods influence exercise fear and exercise self-efficacy. We hypothesized that the use of graded exercise testing (GXT) with a target heart rate range exercise prescription, relative to standard exercise prescription using rating of perceived exertion (RPE), would produce greater reductions in exercise fear and increase self-efficacy during CR. Method: Patients in CR (N = 32) were randomized to an exercise prescription using either RPE or a target heart rate range. Exercise fear and self-efficacy were assessed with questionnaires at three time points: baseline; after the GXT in target heart rate range group; and at session 6 for the RPE group and CR completion. Items were scored on a five-point Likert-type scale with higher mean scores reflecting higher fear of exercise and higher self-efficacy. To analyze mean differences, a mixed effects analysis was run. Results: There were no significant changes in exercise self-efficacy between baseline and discharge from CR; these were not statistically significant (mean differences baseline − 0.63; end − 0.27 (p = 0.13)). Similarly, there was no change in fear between groups (baseline 0.30; end 0.51 (p = 0.37)). Conclusion: Patients in the RPE and target heart rate groups had non-significant changes in exercise self-efficacy over the course of CR. Contrary to our hypothesis, the use of GXT and target heart rate range did not reduce fear, and we noted sustained or increases in fear of exercise among patients with elevated baseline fear. A more targeted psychological intervention seems warranted to reduce exercise fear and self-efficacy in CR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aerobic exercise (AE) has attracted considerable research attention as a non-invasive therapeutic tool in recent years. Accumulating evidence has revealed its protective role against a wide range of diseases. In this study, we aimed to establish whether AE could inhibit apoptosis in infarcted cardiomyocytes and protect the heart. AE in post-myocardial infarction (post-MI) mice improved their cardiac and physical functions. Transmission electron microscopy of myocardial tissue and adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) assay findings revealed an increased mitochondrial number but decreased ATP content in the post-MI mice. Notably, this change was significantly reversed by AE. Immunofluorescence/ TUNEL staining assay results showed that AE inhibited cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Using immunoblotting of myocardial tissues, we found that AE increased the level of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2/Bax, significantly decreased the expression of the pro-apoptotic protein caspase-3, and activated the AMPK/PGC-1α signaling pathway. Our findings provide evidence that AE activates the AMPK/PGC-1α signaling pathway, improves mitochondrial energy supply capacity, and effectively inhibits apoptosis in cardiomyocytes. Therefore, AE can be considered a promising post-infarction therapeutic intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual health and sexual quality of life are key components of psychosocial adjustment after cardiac surgeries and are often linked with improving the general quality of life. Reviews have been conducted to highlight the associations between cardiovascular diseases and sexual dysfunctions, but no review reported determinants of sexual health and sexual quality of life in patients after cardiovascular surgeries. We aimed to comprehensively examine the determinants of sexual health and sexual quality of life among individuals with cardiovascular surgeries. Literature was searched within PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and OVID databases. In total, 816 records were identified from database searches, 279 records were screened, and 11 empirical studies were included for review. Relevant data were extracted using literature summary tables and synthesised using an inductive approach. The core determinants of sexual health and sexual quality of life were type of surgery and comorbidities, fears and uncertainties regarding sexual activity, sexual health education and counselling, spousal relationship and communication, and demographic factors such as advanced age and literacy levels. Major surgeries performed were coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and heart valve surgeries. The data collection tools used to collect data for sexual health and sexual quality of life were the International Erectile Function Questionnaire (IEFQ), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), S exual Knowledge CABG Scale (SKS-CABG), Sexual Quality of Life Questionnaire (SQOL), SKS-Myocardial Infarction Scale (SKS-MI), and Couple Communication Scale (CCS). Despite their importance, sexual health and quality of life are frequently overlooked during patient rehabilitation after cardiovascular surgeries. The lack of adequate education and counselling from healthcare professionals frequently leads to increased fear and uncertainties among individuals and their partners. Therefore, more person-centred educational and counselling approaches should be developed to address the sexual concerns of individuals and their partners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In pulmonary disease patients since oxygen desaturation during 6-min walk test (6MWT) affects walk distance (6MWD), some novel indices such as desaturation/distance ratio [DDR, oxygen desaturation area (DAO2)/6MWD] and distance-saturation product [DSP, 6MWD × minimum peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2)] are evaluated. However, there has been no study examining these indices that consider exercise-induced desaturation (EID) in patients with cardiovascular disease. In 94 cardiovascular disease patients without pulmonary complications, 6MWT and echocardiography were performed at the entry of cardiac rehabilitation. SpO2 was measured during 6MWT using a continuously monitorable pulse oximeter, and DSP and DDR were calculated using minimum SpO2 and DAO2 [sum of (100-SpO2) per second during 6MWT], respectively. EID was defined as SpO2 decrease of ≥ 4% or minimum SpO2 of < 90% during 6MWT. DSP was slightly lower and DDR was markedly higher in patients with EID than in those without. When examining correlations of DSP and DDR with their components, DSP was correlated with 6MWD much closely than minimum SpO2, while DDR was correlated as closely with DAO2 as 6MWD. Furthermore, DAO2, but not minimum SpO2, had a direct correlation with 6MWD. As for associations with cardiac function, DSP was correlated with several cardiac parameters, but DDR was not correlated with any of these parameters. Our findings suggest that oxygen desaturation during 6MWT affects walking distance in cardiovascular disease patients even without pulmonary complications and that DDR is more appropriate than DSP as an index of walking performance that takes EID into consideration, independently of cardiac function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an important tool for improving fitness and quality of life in those with heart disease (HD). Few pediatric centers use CR to care for these patients, and virtual CR is rarely used. In addition, it is unclear how the COVID-19 era has changed CR outcomes. This study assessed fitness improvements in young HD patients participating in both facility-based and virtual CR during the COVID-19 pandemic. This retrospective single-center cohort study included new patients who completed CR from March 2020 through July 2022. CR outcomes included physical, performance, and psychosocial measures. Comparison between serial testing was performed with a paired t test with P < 0.05 was considered significant. Data are reported as mean ± standard deviation. There were 47 patients (19 ± 7.3 years old; 49% male) who completed CR. Improvements were seen in peak oxygen consumption (VO2, 62.3 ± 16.1 v 71 ± 18.2% of predicted, p = 0.0007), 6-min walk (6 MW) distance (401 ± 163.8 v 480.7 ± 119.2 m, p = < 0.0001), sit to stand (16.2 ± 4.9 v 22.1 ± 6.6 repetitions; p = < 0.0001), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) (5.9 ± 4.3 v 4.4 ± 4.2; p = 0.002), and Physical Component Score (39.9 ± 10.1 v 44.9 ± 8.8; p = 0.002). Facility-based CR enrollees were less likely to complete CR than virtual patients (60%, 33/55 v 80%, 12/15; p = 0.005). Increases in peak VO2 (60 ± 15.3 v 70.2 ± 17.8% of predicted; p = 0.002) were seen among those that completed facility-based CR; this was not observed in the virtual group. Both groups demonstrated improvement in 6 MW distance, sit-to-stand repetitions, and sit-and-reach distance. Completion of a CR program resulted in fitness improvements during the COVID-19 era regardless of location, although peak VO2 improved more for the in-person group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purposes of meta-analysis are to evaluate evidence about the effects of Rehabilitation Exercise Program on the balance of post-stroke patients, evaluated by the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Methods: The search was conducted 'stroke,' 'rehabilitation,' 'dynamic balance,' 'Berg Balance Scale,' 'exercise' and 'randomized controlled trial'using MEDLINE (accessed by PubMed), Web of Science (WoS), ProQuest, and Google Scholar for journal studies published from January 2018 to October 2022. Two independent reviewers performed the article selection, data extraction, and methodological quality assessment. The main outcome was dynamic balance assessed by the Berg Balance scale. Results: The review included 30 papers and a total of 540 patients. The overall effect size was 0.550, a medium effect size according to the Cohen's standard. It was observed that gender has moderate effect size in male (0.551), female (0.458) and higher in male. Exercise type results showed large effect sizes in balance training (0.966), and aquatic activities (0.830), moderate effect sizes in virtual reality (0.762), moderate effect sizes in physically active (0.581), gait training (0.541), dual-task (0.478), trunk control (0.284), and small effect sizes in resistance training (0.128). Conclusions: Exercise programs are effective in improving dynamic balance in stroke patients. Especially, the meta-analysis showed higher Effect Size for balance training and virtual reality than for other programs making this relevant interventions for future head to head superiority studies that compare different balance interventions in stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute coronary syndrome is a chronic illness that influences physical and psychological health and well-being and requires continuous treatment and effective self-care. This two-group quasi-experimental study investigated the effectiveness of the Self-Care Support Program for People with Acute Coronary Syndrome. Sixty participants were purposively recruited from medical wards of a university-affiliated hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. A Self-Care Support Program based on Orem's self-care theory was integrated with a motivational interviewing approach. The experimental group (n = 30) received the 4-week intervention program with the usual care, while the comparison group (n = 30) received only usual care. Instruments for data collection included a Demographic and Health Data Form, the Self-Care Behavior for Acute Coronary Syndrome Questionnaire, the Veterans Specific Activity Questionnaire, and the Rehospitalization Record Form. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and two-way repeated measures analysis of variance. Results revealed that the experimental group had significantly improved self-care behavior and functional ability immediately and four weeks after program completion (week 8), compared to the comparison group. There was no difference in rehospitalization between the two groups. Nurses with advanced skills in motivational training can use this program to promote effective self-care practices, improve functional ability, and reduce rehospitalization. Further study using randomized controlled trials and other settings is needed before it can be widely used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Access to cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is contingent upon physician referrals, yet these are often inadequate, particularly in low-resource settings. This multi-method study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Portuguese version of the Provider Attitudes toward CR and Referral (PACRR-P) scale, as well as to identify key factors influencing CR referral in a Latin American context for the first time. Methods: The PACRR was translated into Brazilian Portuguese through a rigorous process involving independent translation, back-translation, and expert panel review to ensure face, content, and cross-cultural validity. A total of 44 Brazilian physicians completed the questionnaire, allowing for an assessment of internal consistency, criterion validity, and convergent validity. Results: The findings confirmed the face, content, and cultural validity of the 20 translated items, with a mean item clarity rating of 4.8/5. The final version included 17 of the original 19 PACRR-P items, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.73. Referral rates were significantly associated with over one-third of the PACRR-P items, preliminarily supporting the scale's criterion validity, while correlations with the ReCaRe scores further supported its convergent validity. The most prominent barriers to referral were a lack of familiarity with CR site locations, absence of a standard referral form, and lack of automatic referral processes. Conclusions: The PACRR's validity and reliability among Portuguese-speaking providers are preliminarily supported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study assessed physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) levels and their motivational and emotional health-related correlates, in outpatients following a cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) program, and compared these variables with those of a healthy control group. Methods: The study included 119 participants: 68 CR outpatients (Mage 57.76 ± 10.76; 86.76% males) and 51 control participants matched on age (Mage 57.35 ± 6.33 years; 45.10% males). PA and SB were assessed using accelerometers during the first week post-discharge for outpatients and during a typical week for controls. Motivational (i.e., perceived capabilities, affective and instrumental attitudes, intention, approach-avoidance tendencies) and emotional health-related variables (i.e., anxiety, depressive symptoms, fatigue, pain intensity) were measured using validated scales. PA and SB data from 17 outpatients and 42 controls were valid for analysis, resulting in a final sample of 59 participants. Results: CR outpatients engaged an average of 60.21 (± 34.79) min of moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), and 548.69 (± 58.64) min of SB per day, with 18 more minutes of MVPA per day than controls (p =.038). Univariate and multivariate regressions indicated that positive affective attitudes were associated with higher MVPA (b = 10.32, R2 = 0.07, p =.029), and that males spent more time in SB than females (b = 40.54, R2 = 0.09, p =.045). Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions showed that meeting the World Health Organization's weekly guidelines for MVPA was associated with higher perceived capabilities toward PA and more positive affective attitudes (OR = 1.17, p =.030; OR = 1.26, p <.001, respectively). Interaction tests showed no significant differences in these results between outpatients and controls. Conclusion: The study highlights an association between higher perceived capabilities and positive affective attitudes toward PA with higher PA levels after outpatient CR. While these findings suggest that enhancing these motivational variables may be beneficial for increasing PA levels after CR, longitudinal and experimental studies are needed to further establish their role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the association between the time to achieve walkability after cardiac surgery and the risk of cardiovascular disease after hospital discharge. Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study involving 553 ambulatory patients aged 71.5 (range, 64.0–77.0) years who underwent cardiac surgery. All patients were divided into five groups based on the time to achieve walkability ≥100 m within 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days after cardiac surgery. We examined the risk of post‐cardiovascular disease outcomes, including readmission due to heart failure, ischaemic heart disease and other cardiovascular disease, according to the time to achieve walkability with reference to 5 days using the Fine and Gray regression model, considering competing risks. Results: In the survival curve analysis, we examined the time to experience post‐cardiovascular disease incidence after hospital discharge. During a median of 3.3 years of follow‐up, 118 patients developed cardiovascular disease. We observed a positive association between the time to achieve walkability and cardiovascular disease risk, particularly heart failure. The multivariate hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for heart failure readmission were N/A (not assessed due to the sample size being too small) for 1 day, 0.31 (0.10–0.99) for 2 days, 0.60 (0.21–1.79) for 3 days and 0.76 (0.22–2.72) for 4 days (P for trend = 0.032). Conclusions: The shorter walkability achievement time was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases, more specifically heart failure readmission, among patients who underwent cardiac surgery. The time required to achieve walkability is a useful predictor for cardiovascular diseases after hospital discharge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Despite advances in therapies, the disease burden of heart failure (HF) has been rising globally. International comparisons of HF management and outcomes may reveal care patterns that improve outcomes. Accordingly, we examined clinical management and patient outcomes in older adults hospitalized for acute HF in the United States (US) and Japan. Methods: We identified patients aged >65 who were hospitalized for HF in 2013 using US Medicare data and the Japanese Registry of Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (JROADHF). We described patient characteristics, management, and healthcare utilization and compared outcomes using multivariable Cox regression during and after HF hospitalization. Results: Among 11 193 Japanese and 120 289 US patients, age and sex distributions were similar, but US patients had higher comorbidity rates. The length of stay was longer in Japan (median 18 vs. 5 days). While Medicare patients had higher use of implantable cardioverter defibrillator or cardiac resynchronization therapy during hospitalization (1.32% vs. 0.6%), Japanese patients were more likely to receive cardiovascular medications at discharge and to undergo cardiac rehabilitation within 3 months of HF admission (31% vs. 1.6%). Physician follow‐up within 30 days was higher in Japan (77% vs. 57%). Cardiovascular readmission, cardiovascular mortality and all‐cause mortality were 2.1–3.7 times higher in the US patients. The per‐day cost of hospitalization was lower in Japan ($516 vs. $1323). Conclusions: We observed notable differences in the management, outcomes and costs of HF hospitalization between the US and Japan. Large differences in length of hospitalization, cardiac rehabilitation rate and outcomes warrant further research to determine the optimal length of stay and assess the benefits of inpatient cardiac rehabilitation to reduce rehospitalization and mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sedentary behavior (SB) is associated with health impairments, while physical activity (PA) has been a protective factor. It is unclear whether SB and PA are associated with occurrence of signs and/or symptoms (SS) during cardiac rehabilitation program (CRP) exercise sessions. The objective was to evaluate the association between SB and PA with occurrence of SS. Was included 48 patients from a CRP program (64.7 ± 10.4 years-old). Daily time and % of time of SB and weekly time in moderate-to-vigorous-intensity [MVPA], % of MVPA time, steps/day, and steps/minute were accelerometer-measured. Patients were followed-up during 24 CRP sessions, for accompaniment of SS. Age, sex, and comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity) were covariates. Log-transformed values of SB, MVPA and steps/day were also analyzed. As results, 43.7% (n = 21) of participants presented occurrence of signs, 62.5% (n = 30) presented occurrence of symptoms, and 81.2% (n = 39) present occurrence of SS. In fully adjusted model, % of time in MVPA (β: −0.449,p = 0.045) and steps/minute (β: −0.244,p = 0.026) were inversely associated with occurrence of symptoms. No association was observed between SB and PA and occurrence of signs. The occurrence of symptoms and SS among CRP participants was directly associated with SB and inversely associated with variables of PA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) constitutes the recommended nonpharmacological approach for cardiac patients with cardiovascular disease such as people following a recent (i.e., < 4 week) myocardial infarction (MI). Recent evidence suggests that cardiac telerehabilitation may be as effective as traditional (i.e., in person) CR in people following a recent MI. Nevertheless, the feasibility, acceptability, and safety of such an exercise programme has yet to be examined. Methods: Forty-four (11 women, 33 men) people following a recent MI were randomly allocated into two groups (online home-based and gym-based groups). The groups underwent a 24-week CR programme thrice per week. All patients performed the baseline, and 24 weeks follow up measurements where feasibility, acceptability, and safety were assessed. Results: Eligibility and recruitment rates were found to be 61.5% and 42%, respectively. Compliance to the thrice weekly, 24-week exercise programme for the online- and gym-based groups were 91.6% and 90.9%, respectively. There were no dropouts during the exercise programmes, however four participants, two from each group, were lost to follow up at 6 months. The average percentage of peak HR (% HRpeak) for the online group was 66.6% ± 4.5 and for the gym-based group was 67.2% ± 5. The average RPE and affect during exercise was for both groups 12 ± 1 ("somewhat hard") and 3 ± 1 ("good"), respectively. During the 6-month exercise intervention period for both groups, the exercise-induced symptoms were minimal to none. The user suitability evaluation questionnaire revealed that the online real time telerehabilitation and tele coaching programme was enjoyable (4.85 ± 0.37) and did not induce general discomfort (1.20 ± 0.41). Conclusion: Our cardiac telerehabilitation programme seems to be feasible, acceptable, safe, and enjoyable for people with a recent MI. Our participants had an overall positive experience and acceptability of the cardiac telerehabilitation and tele coaching using wearable devices. Trial registration: ClinicalTrial.gov, ID NCT06071273, 10/02/2023, retrospectively registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although quality of life (QOL) is an outcome of postoperative cardiac rehabilitation (CR), its course and related factors from postoperative hospitalization to the post-discharge period have not been adequately investigated. Additionally, the EuroQol-5Dimension-5Level (EQ-5D-5L) index score has not been characterized over the same period. We aimed to characterize QOL changes assessed by the EQ-5D-5L, over the period from hospitalization to 1 year post-discharge, in patients post-cardiac and thoracic aortic surgery, and investigate the factors associated with these temporal changes. Methodology: This prospective, single-center study included 117 patients who underwent open cardiovascular surgery (median age, 72 years; men, 69%). Patients were assessed for QOL status when transferred to the general ward; at discharge; and at 6 and 12 months after discharge, using the EQ-5D-5L index score and a generalized linear mixed model with random intercepts. Patients were classified into two groups based on score changes post-discharge. Logistic regression analysis evaluated factors associated with QOL decrease post-discharge. Results: The EQ-5D-5L index score significantly increased over time, except between 6 and 12 months post-discharge; "Common activities" was the most common dimension showing score improvement. In 25 patients (21%), the EQ-5D-5L index scores were lower after discharge compared to their scores at discharge. In the logistic regression analysis, Barthel Index pre-admission, preoperative hemoglobin level, and Mini-Mental State Examination-Japanese scores pre-discharge were significantly associated with QOL decline after adjusting for the European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II score. Conclusions: Most patients post-cardiac or thoracic aortic surgery experienced improved QOL from postoperative hospital stay to 1 year post-discharge. However, in patients with pre-operative basic activities of daily living, hemoglobin and post-operative cognitive decline may require ongoing comprehensive CR because of reduced QOL. Given the potential selection bias introduced by the relatively small sample size in this study, future research involving larger populations is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many post-myocardial infarction (MI) patients struggle with physical activity behavior change (BC) for life-long secondary prevention. There is limited knowledge about factors influencing long-term physical activity BC among post-MI patients. This qualitative study aimed to explore the beliefs and experiences related to post-MI patients' physical activity BC process following a year's participation in a supervised and self-monitored exercise program: the Norwegian Trial of Physical Exercise After MI (NorEx). Methods: We conducted a qualitative study, performing in-depth semi-structured interviews with a randomly selected sample of NorEx participants when they were scheduled for cardiopulmonary exercise testing after one year of participation. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and the data was analyzed by applying reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Seventeen participants (n = 4 female [24%]; median age, 61 years; median time since index MI, 4 years) were recruited and interviewed once. Analysis resulted in four main themes (nine sub-themes): (1) Personal responsibility to exercise (Exercise is safe, Health benefits, Habitual exercise); (2) Peer social support for a sense of safety and belonging (Social exercise, Supervision is preferred); (3) Research participation transformed exercise beliefs (High-intensity exercise is superior, Personal Activity Intelligence (PAI) promotes exercise adherence); and (4) Mind the intention-behavior gap (Initial anxiety, Lack of continued follow-up). Conclusions: Several participants reported that they were able to maintain exercise BC during a year's participation in NorEx. Nevertheless, a perceived lack of continued and individualized follow-up made some participants struggle with motivation and self-regulation, leading to an intention-behavior gap. Therefore, our findings suggest there is a need for individualized and continued social support and supervision from health and exercise professionals to maintain long-term exercise BC for secondary prevention among post-MI patients. Trial registration: The NorEx study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04617639, registration date 2020-10-21). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the effect of individual exercise training on the rehabilitation of patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods A total of 81 patients between January 2021 and December 2023 were randomly allocated into an observation group (n = 41) and a control group (n = 40) using a simple random number Tab.method. The control group received routine post- operative rehabilitation intervention, while the observation group received individualized exercise training as the core component of cardiac rehabilitation intervention. The study compared the effects of rehabilitation, cardiac function parameters [left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD)], exercise endurance measures [6-minute walking distance (6MWD)], and quality of life assessed by Seattle Angina Pecina Scale (SAQ) scores between the two groups before and after a three-month intervention period. Results The total recovery response rate in the observation group was higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). LVEF, LVEDD, 6 MWD, maximum exercise load and SAQ scales (P > 0.05), LVEF were higher than before intervention (t = 3.345, 2.480, 3.165, 5.016, 2.059, 4.582, 4.443, 3.353, P < 0.05), and LVEDD was lower than before intervention (t = 3.335, P < 0.05). Conclusion The individualized exercise training-based cardiac rehabilitation program demonstrates potential for enhancing cardiac function and exercise endurance in patients with CHD following PCI, thereby improving their overall quality of life. This finding holds significant clinical implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) adherence and functional outcomes were measured after COVID-19 regulations reduced group sizes to one-onone, modeling a natural experiment. Methods: A retrospective analysis using a natural experiment model measured participants in 12 weeks of CR during the 17 months before and after a COVID-19-related closure was conducted. The age, sex, race, ethnicity, and referral diagnoses of the pre-COVID-19 closure and post-COVID-19 closure groups were analyzed using a student's unpaired T-test. Adherence (completion rate of CR) and functional outcomes [change in six-minute walk test (6MWT)] were assessed between the two groups using unpaired two-tailed student T tests in GraphPad Prism and confidence intervals were calculated with the Baptista-Pike method. Results: There were 204 patients in the pre-COVID-19 group and 51 patients in the post-COVID-19 group, due to the smaller group sizes in the post-COVID-19 group, with no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the groups. The pre-COVID-19 group had a higher patient-to-provider ratio [2.8 patients/provider (SD 0.74)] relative to the post-COVID-19 group [0.4 patients/provider (SD 0.12); p < 0.0001]. The post-COVID-19 group had a higher completion rate than pre-COVID-19 group [75% vs. 21%; OR 10.9 (95% CI, 5.3-21.3, p < 0.0001)]. Among those that completed CR, there was no significant difference between groups in 6MWT improvement [+377.9 ft. (n = 47; SD 275.67 ft.) vs. +346.9 ft. (n = 38; SD 196.27 ft.); p = 0.59]. Discussion: The reduction in group size to one-on-one was associated with 10 times higher odds of CR completion. Among those that completed CR, functional outcomes were not influenced by group size. Thus, pursuit of one-on-one sessions may improve CR adherence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To explore the effect of early initiation of self-management based on multidisciplinary education in heart failure (HF) patients. Methods: HF patients in the Cardiology Department of Beijing Hospital were consecutively enrolled from June 2022 to February 2023. In-hospital HF patients from June 2022 to October 2022 were divided into the control group, and HF patients from November 2022 to February 2023 were divided into the cardiac rehabilitation (CR) group. A series of self-management education sessions with cardiologists, pharmacologists, nutritionists, and nurses was initiated early in the CR group. Continuous strengthening education was provided during the 3 months of discharge. Patients in the control group only received education twice during hospitalization. Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ), Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), anxiety Self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), and Self-rating depression scale (SDS) were compared between the two groups. Major cardiovascular adverse events (MACEs) were recorded during follow-up. Results: A total of 91 HF patients were enrolled. There were 44 patients in the CR group and 47 in the control group. Compared with before the program, the MLHFQ and SAS scores significantly decreased at 3 months after discharge in both groups. PSQI also showed mild improvement without significant differences in both groups. Furthermore, SDS showed a significant increase in the CR group but within the normal range. MACE occurrences did not show a significant difference. Conclusion: Early initiation of self-management program based on multidisciplinary education may help improve quality of life, sleep quality, and reduce anxiety for hospitalized HF patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to analyze the effect of cardiac rehabilitation programs on the health-related quality of life of patients after a coronary cardiac event using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for up to 6 months of evaluation. Methods: A comprehensive search was carried out in the MEDLINE, CINAHL, CENTRAL, and Web of Science databases for randomized controlled trials comparing the cardiac rehabilitation program with usual care. Two independent reviewers assessed the studies for inclusion, risk of bias using the Cochrane tool, and quality of evidence through the GRADE system. A meta-analysis was performed on studies assessing health-related quality of life with the SF-12 (Physical Component Summary and Mental Component Summary) up to 6 months after the program. Results: Twelve studies encompassed 2260 patients who participated in a cardiac rehabilitation program after a coronary event, with a mean age of 60.06 years. The generic PROMs used to assess quality of life were the SF-12, SF-36, EQ-5D-3L, EQ-5D-5L, and GHQ, and the specific coronary heart disease PROMs were MacNew and HeartQoL. There was a positive effect of participation in cardiac rehabilitation on the physical component of health-related quality of life at 6 months (MD [7.02]; p = 0.04] and on the mental component (MD [1.06]; p = 0.82) after applying the SF-12. Conclusions: This study highlights the significant benefits of cardiac rehabilitation programs on health-related quality of life, particularly in the physical domain at 6 months. Assessing outcomes over time through PROMs after coronary heart events is essential, thus making it possible to personalize patients' care and improve their health status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation improves clinical outcomes and quality of life. Technology-enabled delivery of remote cardiac rehabilitation is as effective in improving health outcomes as in-person delivery and has the potential to transform clinical service delivery. However, for the successful translation of research to clinical practice, interventions must be adequately reported in the literature. Methods: Systematic review of MedLine, CINAHL, PubMed and SPORT Discus databases applying PRISMA guidance. Randomised controlled trials of remote or hybrid technology-enabled exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation interventions were included. Completeness of reporting was evaluated against the TIDieR checklist. Results: The search strategy returned 162 articles which, following screening, resulted in 12 randomised trials being included containing data for 1588 participants. No trial fully reported their rehabilitation intervention as per the 12-item TIDieR checklist, with a median score of eight out of 12 categories. Notably, intervention detail, dosage and modification were comparatively poorly reported. Conclusion: Technology-enabled remotely delivered cardiac rehabilitation may be effective at improving cardiovascular fitness; however, the quality of reporting of these interventions in randomised trials is insufficient for replication which has material implications for translation into clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are often at risk for or have comorbid cardiovascular disease and are likely to die of cardiovascular-related causes. Objectives: To prioritize a list of research topics related to the diagnosis and management of patients with COPD and comorbid cardiovascular diseases (heart failure, atherosclerotic vascular disease, and atrial fibrillation) by summarizing existing evidence and using consensus-based methods. Methods: A literature search was performed. References were reviewed by committee co-chairs. An international, multidisciplinary committee, including a patient advocate, met virtually to review evidence and identify research topics. A modified Delphi approach was used to prioritize topics in real time on the basis of their potential for advancing the field. Results: Gaps spanned the translational science spectrum from basic science to implementation: 1) disease mechanisms; 2) epidemiology; 3) subphenotyping; 4) diagnosis and management; 5) clinical trials; 6) care delivery; 7) medication access, adherence, and side effects; 8) risk factor mitigation; 9) cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation; and 10) health equity. Seventeen experts participated, and quorum was achieved for all votes (>80%). Of 17 topics, ≥70% agreement was achieved for 12 topics after two rounds of voting. The range of summative Likert scores was −15 to 25. The highest priority was "Conduct pragmatic clinical trials with patient-centered outcomes that collect both pulmonary and cardiac data elements." Health equity was identified as an important topic that should be embedded within all research. Conclusions: We propose a prioritized research agenda with the purpose of stimulating high-impact research that will hopefully improve outcomes among people with COPD and cardiovascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPurposeMaterials and methodsResultsConclusions\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONTo examine changes in device-based 24-hour movement behaviours (MB), and facilitators and barriers to physical activity (PA) and exercise, during remotely-delivered cardiac rehabilitation (RDCR).This prospective observational study used wrist-worn GENEActiv accelerometers to assess MB of 10 service-users (63 ± 10 years) at the start, middle, and end of three-months of RDCR. Barriers and facilitators to PA and exercise were explored through self-report diaries and analysed using content analysis.At start, service-users were sedentary for 12.6 ± 0.7 h · day−1 and accumulated most PA at a light-intensity (133.52 ± 28.57 min · day−1) – neither changed significantly during RDCR. Sleep efficiency significantly reduced from start (88.80 ± 4.2%) to the end (86.1 ± 4.76%) of CR, with values meeting health-based recommendations (≥85%). Barriers to RDCR exercise included exertional discomfort and cardiac symptoms, and reduced confidence when exercising alone. Setting meaningful PA goals, self-monitoring health targets, and having social support, facilitated PA and exercise during RDCR.Our RDCR programme failed to elicit significant changes in MB or sleep. To increase the likelihood of successful RDCR, it is important to promote a variety of exercise and PA options, target sedentary time, and apply theory to RDCR design, delivery, and support strategies.Practitioners should work with service-users to understand how best to support them to maximise the benefit(s) of remotely/hybrid delivered services.Facilitating easy (and regular) access to health professionals during remotely/hybrid delivered cardiac rehabilitation (CR) will support the development of service-users’ physical activity (PA) and exercise self-efficacy (i.e., confidence).Remotely/hybrid delivered CR should be informed by theory and/or behaviour change techniques to support increased PA, reduced sedentary time and improved sleep during and after CR.It is important to include strategies to reduce sedentary time in addition to targeting PA and exercise in remotely-delivered CR.Practitioners should work with service-users to understand how best to support them to maximise the benefit(s) of remotely/hybrid delivered services.Facilitating easy (and regular) access to health professionals during remotely/hybrid delivered cardiac rehabilitation (CR) will support the development of service-users’ physical activity (PA) and exercise self-efficacy (i.e., confidence).Remotely/hybrid delivered CR should be informed by theory and/or behaviour change techniques to support increased PA, reduced sedentary time and improved sleep during and after CR.It is important to include strategies to reduce sedentary time in addition to targeting PA and exercise in remotely-delivered CR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the detrimental impact of abnormal glucose metabolism on cardiovascular prognosis after myocardial infarction (MI), diabetes is both underdiagnosed and undertreated. We investigated associations between structured diabetes care routines in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) and detection and treatment of diabetes at one-year post-MI. Methods: Center-level data was derived from the Perfect-CR survey, which evaluated work routines applied at Swedish CR centers (n = 76). Work routines involving diabetes care included: (1) routine assessment of fasting glucose and/or HbA1c, (2) routine use of oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), (3) having regular case rounds with diabetologists, and (4) whether glucose-lowering medication was adjusted by CR physicians. Patient-level data was obtained from the national MI registry SWEDEHEART (n = 7601, 76% male, mean age 62.6 years) and included all post-MI patients irrespective of diabetes diagnosis. Using mixed-effects regression we estimated differences between patients exposed versus. not exposed to the four above-mentioned diabetes care routines. Outcomes were newly detected diabetes and the proportion of patients receiving oral glucose-lowering medication at one-year post-MI. Results: Routine assessment of fasting glucose/HbA1c was performed at 63.2% (n = 48) of the centers, while 38.2% (n = 29) reported using OGTT for detecting glucose abnormalities. Glucose-lowering medication adjusted by CR physicians (n = 13, 17.1%) or regular case rounds with diabetologists (n = 7, 9.2%) were less frequently reported. In total, 4.0% of all patients (n = 304) were diagnosed with diabetes during follow-up and 17.9% (n = 1361) were on oral glucose-lowering treatment one-year post-MI. Routine use of OGTT was associated with a higher rate of newly detected diabetes at one-year (risk ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.62 [1.26, 1.98], p = 0.0007). At one-year a higher proportion of patients were receiving oral glucose-lowering medication at centers using OGTT (1.22 [1.07, 1.37], p = 0.0046) and where such medication was adjusted by CR physicians (1.31 [1.06, 1.56], p = 0.0155). Compared to having none of the structured diabetes care routines, the more routines implemented the higher the rate of newly detected diabetes (from 0 routines: 2.7% to 4 routines: 6.3%; p for trend = 0.0014). Conclusions: Having structured routines for diabetes care implemented within CR can improve detection and treatment of diabetes post-MI. A cluster-randomized trial is warranted to ascertain causality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The role of uric acid (UA) and Hyper Uricemia (HU) in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) patients have been very little studied. Aim: To evaluate the prevalence of HU and if it is associated to the functional improvement obtained or the left ventricular Ejection Fraction (EF) in CR patients after Acute or Chronic Coronary Syndrome (ACS and CCS respectively). Methods: We enrol 411 patients (62.4 ± 10.2 years; males 79.8%) enrolled in the CR program at Niguarda Hospital (Milan) from January 2012 to May 2023. HU was defined both as the classic cut-off (> 6 for females, > 7 mg/dL for males) and with the newly identified one by the URRAH study (> 5.1 for females, > 5.6 mg/dL for males). All patients performed a 6MWT and an echocardiography at the beginning and at the end of CR program. Results: Mean UA values were within the normal range (5.6 ± 1.4 mg/dL) with 19.5% (classic cut-off) HU patients with an increase to 47.4% with the newer one. Linear regression analysis showed no role for UA in determining functional improvement, while UA and hyperuricemia (classic cut-off) were associated to admission and discharge EF. The same was not with the URRAH cut-off. Conclusions: HU is as frequent in CR patients as in those with ACS and CCS. UA didn't correlate with functional recovery while it is associated with admission and discharge EF as also is for HU (classic cut-off). Whit the URRAH cut-off HU prevalence increases significantly, however, it doesn't show any significant association with EF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the remarkable and progressive advances made in the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases, the recurrence of cardiovascular events remains unacceptably elevated with a notable size of the residual risk. Indeed, in patients who suffered from myocardial infarction or who underwent percutaneous or surgical myocardial revascularization, life-style changes and optimized pharmacological therapy with antiplatelet drugs, lipid lowering agents, beta-blockers, renin angiotensin system inhibitors and antidiabetic drugs, when appropriate, are systematically prescribed but they might be insufficient to protect from further events. In such a context, an increasing body of evidence supports the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) in the setting of secondary cardiovascular prevention, consisting in the reduction of myocardial oxygen demands, in the inhibition of atherosclerotic plaque progression and in an improvement of exercise performance, quality of life and survival. However, prescription and implementation of CR programs is still not sufficiently considered. The aim of this position paper of the Italian Society of Cardiovascular Prevention (SIPREC) and of the Italian Heart Failure Association (ITAHFA) is to examine the reasons of the insufficient use of this strategy in clinical practice and to propose some feasible solutions to overcome this clinical gap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research investigates how cardiac rehabilitation impacts life quality in elderly heart failure patients. Older patients often encounter distinctive issues, such as other health conditions and age-linked frailty, affecting their ability to join and gain from rehab programs. This study examines customized rehab plans to meet these needs, which entail using both traditional and new methods like telerehabilitation and activities such as Tai Chi and yoga. Results show that specific rehab programs notably improve functional ability and cut hospital stays for elderly heart failure patients. Also, home-based rehab plans, like the REACH-HF program, appear cost-effective, boosting life quality and reducing health problems. Telerehabilitation has shown to expand access to rehab services, especially aiding elderly patients who struggle to attend on-site programs. This study also asseses the improvement in quality of life, namely the physical and psychological health, such as the augmentation/improvement of patients' exercise tolerance, participation in social activities or even the increased desire of taking care of themselves. The research highlights the significance of including risk understanding, precise nursing activities, and diverse physical exercises to enhance involvement and commitment, improving results and patient happiness. These findings support the ongoing creation and execution of patient-focused cardiac rehab strategies to better the overall health and well-being of elderly heart failure patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Lifestyle interventions are recommended in cardiac rehabilitation guidelines to reduce cardiovascular risk and prevent heart attacks. Therefore, it is important to investigate their effectiveness in primary healthcare settings to improve outcomes in individuals with ischaemic heart disease. The aim of this study was to examine the association between adherence and completion of cardiac rehabilitation and outcomes related to waist circumference and physical performance in primary healthcare settings. Methods: A total of 514 individuals diagnosed with ischaemic heart disease were enrolled from ten primary healthcare settings in the Central Denmark Region to participate in cardiac rehabilitation. Participants were categorised based on the completion of a dietary intervention. Changes in waist circumference from baseline to the 12-week follow-up were measured. Adherence to the exercise intervention was assessed based on participation in ≥80% or <80% of training sessions. Changes in physical performance, specifically a 10% improvement in the Watt-max bicycle test, were evaluated over the same period. Linear and logistic regression analyses were conducted, both crude and adjusted for potential confounders. Results: Of the 514 participants, 317 (70.8%) who completed the dietary intervention experienced an average reduction of –1.32 cm (95% confidence interval: –1.91 to –0.74 cm) in waist circumference, compared to –0.50 cm for non-completers (P=0.019). Additionally, 276 (56.2%) participants adhered to ≥80% of the exercise intervention, with 237 (66.7%) showing an improvement of ≥10% in Watt-max from baseline to follow-up. Individuals who adhered to ≥80% of the exercise intervention were twice as likely to achieve a ≥10% improvement in Watt-max compared to those with <80% adherence (P=0.334). Conclusions: Both dietary and exercise interventions administered in primary healthcare settings were associated with positive changes in waist circumference and physical performance. Implications for practice: Dietitians should focus on motivating patients to complete dietary interventions, which can significantly reduce waist circumference. Physiotherapists should emphasise the importance of adherence to exercise programmes. Encouraging patients to meet adherence targets, both in structured rehabilitation and home-based activities, is vital to achieve long-term health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the effectiveness of cardiac rehabilitation (CR), the actual participation rate in CR is low. While home-based CR offers a viable alternative, it faces challenges in participation due to factors such as a lack of self-motivation and fear of exercising without supervision. Utilizing a mobile healthcare application (app) during counseling may be an effective strategy for patients. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess whether 6 weeks of home-based CR with exercise readjustment using a mobile app is an effective therapy for patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Methods: Post-AMI patients eligible for home-based CR were randomized into the intervention group (CR-Mobile) and the control group, which followed the usual home-based CR protocol (CR-Usual). Both groups participated in a 6-week home-based CR program, with exercise readjustment and encouragement carried out every 2 weeks. The CR-Mobile group was supervised using data recorded in the mobile app, while the CR-Usual group was supervised via phone consultations. The primary outcome measured was maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max). Results: Within-group comparisons showed significant improvements in VO2max (PCR-Mobile = 0.011 vs. PCR-Usual = 0.020) and METs (PCR-Mobile = 0.011 vs. PCR-Usual = 0.011) for both groups. Conclusions: These findings suggest that a 6-week home-based CR program with exercise readjustment using a mobile app can potentially enhance exercise capacity as effectively as verbal supervision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: While Baduanjin, a traditional Chinese mind‐body exercise, has shown potential health benefits, its efficacy in improving outcomes for heart failure patients with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction (HFmrEF/HFpEF) has not been well documented. We aimed to investigate the adjunctive impact of Baduanjin on exercise capacity and quality of life for HFmrEF/HFpEF. Methods: Patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF were enrolled in this multicenter randomized clinical trial. All participants were randomized to conventional cardiac rehabilitation with or without an additional 12‐week Baduanjin exercise. The primary endpoint was the distance covered in a 6‐min walk test (6MWD), while key secondary outcomes included quality of life measured by the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) and cardiopulmonary function including anaerobic threshold (VO2 AT). Results: A total of 120 patients were enrolled, and 109 completed all session and tests. The mean age of the 120 patients was 60.5 years (SD, 9.21 years), and 23 (19.2%) were women. The Baduanjin group exhibited a 6.14% improvement in 6MWD compared to a 1.32% improvement in the control group (median improvement, 25.0 vs. 5.0 m; p < 0.001) at 12th week. The VO2 AT increased by 25.87% in the Baduanjin group versus 3.94% in the control group (p < 0.001). Quality of life also significantly improved in the Baduanjin group as indicated by MLHFQ score changes (–16.8% vs. –3.99%; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Adding Baduanjin to exercise‐based cardiac rehabilitation for patients with ischemic HFmrEF or HFpEF are generally safe and could provide significant improvements in exercise capacity and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One and a half million cardiac surgeries are completed worldwide each year where undertreated postoperative pain increases the risk of patient morbidity and mortality. Patient-centered pain management is recommended to improve patient outcomes but there is insufficient information regarding how the patient views their role. The objective of this study is to explore cardiac surgery patients' perspectives on their role in postoperative pain management. This study used an interpretive phenomenological design and convenience sampling. Six participants who had undergone cardiac surgery were recruited from a cardiac rehabilitation program in Western Canada. The first author conducted semi-structured digitally recorded interviews. Sociodemographic characteristics and measures of anxiety and depression were also collected. Emergent thematic analysis of the qualitative data generated three themes: attitude, coping and care, and communication. The findings of this study address a gap in the literature with regard to patients' perceived roles in pain management. There is a complex relationship between patient attitude, coping and care, and communication which, in turn, influences how patients view their role within the pain management continuum. These themes contribute to the development of the patient role within the pain management continuum and form an integrated feedback loop. The patient's attitude contributes to their ability to cope with pain and participate in pain assessment and management. Furthermore, their ability to cope and desire to participate influences the development of their attitude. These findings may enhance providers' understanding of the patient's perspective and improve pain management outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim was to identify whether cardiovascular telerehabilitation programs (CV-T-REHAB) can improve functional capacity, cardiorespiratory fitness and quality of life (QoL) to the same extent of presential rehabilitation (CV-P-REHAB) in older adults, by meta-analysis of previous studies. Methods: Literature search was conducted in October 2020 in four databases to select controlled trials of CV-T-REHAB effects on functional capacity (six-minute walk test [6MWT]), cardiorespiratory fitness (maximal oxygen consumption [ V ˙ O2max]), and QoL in older adults (> 50 years) and included new articles in April 2022. Results: CV-T-REHAB improved 6MWT (11.14 m [CI95% = 8.03; 14.26], p < 0.001), V ˙ O2max (1.18 ml/kg/min [CI95% = 0.70; 1.66], p < 0.001), and QoL (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.36 [CI95% = 0.05; 0.67], p = 0.02). CV-T-REHAB increased V ˙ O2max to a greater extent than CV-P-REHAB (1.08 ml/kg/min [0.39; 1.76], p = 0.002). Although the 6MWT and V ˙ O2max analyses proved consistent and homogeneous, the QoL analysis showed considerable inconsistency (I 2 = 92.90%), suggesting the need for studies exploring the effect of CV-T-REHAB on QoL in this population. Part of the heterogeneity was explained by age differences, as CV-T-REHAB improved QoL in adults >65 years, but not in adults <64 years. Conclusion: CV-T-REHAB improved cardiorespiratory fitness to a level equal to or higher than CV-P-REHAB and improved functional capacity and QoL; being mainly effective for QoL in older adults >65 years. Thus, CV-T-REHAB can be a good alternative, when not the best option and might be considered especially for individuals with limited access to participate in face-to-face programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Identifying the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) contributes to the ability to determine the efficacy of physiotherapy interventions and make good clinical decisions. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to estimate the MCID for 6-minute walking distance (6MWD) among inpatients with subacute cardiac disease using multiple anchor-based methods. Methods: This study was a secondary data analysis using only data from a multicenter longitudinal observational study in which 6MWD was measured at two time points. Based on the changes in 6MWD between baseline measurement and follow-up approximately 1 week after baseline measurement, the global rating of change scales (GRCs) of patients and physiotherapists, anchor method receiver operator operating characteristic curves, predictive models, and adjusted models were used to calculate the MCID. Results: Participants comprised 35 patients. Mean (standard deviation) 6MWD was 228.9 m (121.1 m) at baseline and 270.1 m (125.0 m) at follow-up. MCID for each GRC was 27.5–35.6 m for patients and 32.5–38.6 m for physiotherapists. Conclusion: The MCID in 6MWD in patients with subacute cardiovascular disease is 27.5–38.6 m. This value may be useful in determining the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions and for decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Exercise is an important component of rehabilitation care for people with coronary heart disease (CHD). Objectives: The aim of this study was to critically analyze and summarize the existing evidence from published systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that have evaluated the effects of different types of exercise interventions on cardiorespiratory fitness, as measured by peak oxygen consumption in people with CHD. Methods: Electronic databases (Cochrane Library, Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, and PEDro) were searched for SRs of exercise interventions of people with CHD. Two reviewers assessed the quality of SRs using the AMSTAR-2 tool and evaluated the strength of evidence quality with the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system for relevant outcome measures. Mean difference (MD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Results: Thirty-one SRs (with 125 RCTs) met the study criteria, including 33,608 patients. Compared with usual care, continuous aerobic exercise produced an improvement in peak oxygen consumption, MD of 3.8 mL kg−1 min−1 (95% CI: 3.204.4, I2 = 67%); high-intensity interval training, MD 6.1 mL kg−1 min−1 (95% CI: 0.4–11.8, I2 = 97%); resistance training, MD of 2.1 mL kg−1 min−1 (95% CI: 0.98–3.2, I2 = 60%); combined aerobic and resistance training, MD of 3.0 mL kg−1 min−1 (95% CI: 2.5–3.4, I2 = 0%); and water-based exercise, MD of 4.4 mL kg−1 min−1 (95% CI, 2.1–6.7; I2 = 2%). Conclusion: Exercise interventions improve peak oxygen consumption in people with CHD. However, there was moderate to very-low certainty for the evidence found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To identify utility-based patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for assessing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention programs (CR) and appraise existing evidence on their measurement properties. Secondly, to link their items to the International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health (ICF) and the International Consortium of Health Outcome Measures (ICHOM) domains for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Methods: Eight databases were searched. The review followed the COSMIN and JBI guidelines for measurement properties systematic reviews and PRISMA 2020 reporting guidelines. Non-experimental and observational empirical studies of patients ≥ 18 years of age with CVD undergoing CR and assessed quality of life (QoL) or HRQoL using utility-based PROMs or one accompanied by health state utilities were included. Results: Nine PROMs were identified with evidence on measurement properties for three measures: the German translations of SF-12, EQ-5D-5L, and MacNew heart disease HRQoL questionnaire. There was moderate quality evidence for responsiveness and hypothesis testing of the SF-12 and EQ-5D-5L, and high-quality evidence for responsiveness and hypothesis testing for the MacNew. All items of SF-12 and EQ-5D were linked to ICF categories, but four items of the MacNew were not classified or defined. All the PROM domains were mapped onto similar constructs from the ICHOM global sets. Conclusion: Three utility-based PROMs validated in CR were identified: the German versions of the EQ-5D and SF-12 and the MacNew questionnaire. These PROMs are linked to a breadth of ICF categories and all ICHOM global sets. Additional validation studies of PROMs in CR are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical activity (PA) and weight management are critical for cardiovascular disease (CVD) secondary prevention. However, PA adherence during or after cardiac rehabilitation is low. Here, we assess the feasibility and acceptability of the Australian football-themed Aussie Fans in Training (Aussie-FIT) program and associated trial procedures when adapted for men with CVD. A pragmatic randomised control trial, with waitlist control arm, and follow-up measures at 3 and 6 months. Men with a CVD diagnosis and body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 were recruited from community and clinical settings, and randomised, following baseline measures of health and health behaviours. The intervention arm attended 12 face-to-face football-themed education and PA sessions. Feasibility (recruitment, retention, attendance, and adherence to trial procedures) was assessed via mixed methods. A total of 74% (64/86) of participants expressing interest met the eligibility criteria. Of those, 49 men (mean age=61.4, standard deviation=9.5, mean body mass index=31.3, standard deviation=4.2) were randomised. Program attendance rates (87% attended ≥80% of sessions) and retention (92%) were high. Trial retention at the primary end point (3 months) was high (86%) and at the 6-month follow-ups reduced to 67%. Program and trial procedures were acceptable, except for the request to visit a pathologist for the blood draw. Using a football theme and setting may be a feasible way to engage men with CVD in health behaviour change. Given the existing pilot evidence for men at risk of CVD, and that recruitment rates were under the target, trialling a program for men with or at risk of CVD is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cardiac rehabilitation quality indicators (CRQIs) developed by the Canadian Cardiovascular Society provide a means to standardize program assessment and identify sex-related inequities. No formal evaluation of the CRQIs has been conducted in Manitoba. An environmental scan for the CRQIs was performed using data in the electronic medical record at two cardiac rehabilitation (CR) sites in Winnipeg for 2016–2019 referrals. Of the 8116 referrals, 7758 (5491 males and 2267 females) had geographical access and were eligible for CR. The Manitoba Centre for Health Policy Data Quality Framework informed the data quality assessment. Thirteen CRQIs were available; four were considered high quality; nine demonstrated moderate to significant missing data. In addition to missing values, potential misclassification of risk (CR-4) and physiologically implausible and invalid dates were assessed and identified (CR-13 and CR-17). Each site had a physician medical director (CR-31) and a documented emergency response strategy (CR-32). Only high-quality data were evaluated for sex-related differences using chi-square and median tests. Women had lower enrollment (CR-3), and more women enrolled after the median of 41 days (CR-2b). Engagement with CR partners, including frontline staff, and utilizing strategies to assess and limit physiologically implausible values and dates will enhance data capture and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart failure (HF) can cause metabolic imbalances, leading to anabolic resistance and increased energy expenditure, which often results in weight loss and cachexia. Comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation (CR), including exercise, nutritional support, and risk management, is crucial for enhancing the health and quality of life of patients with HF and is expected to play a central role in the prevention and treatment of HF-associated cachexia. However, the prevalence of cachexia in patients with HF undergoing comprehensive outpatient CR is currently unknown, and the detailed characteristics including of motor function of such patients remain undefined. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of cachexia and the relationship between cachexia and lower limb motor function in patients with HF undergoing outpatient CR. This study included 115 consecutive patients with HF (43% male; mean age, 78 ± 8 years) who underwent comprehensive outpatient CR. The cachexia status was assessed according to the definition proposed by the Asian Working Group on Cachexia in 2023. The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and Mini Nutritional Assessment Short-Form (MNA-SF) were used to evaluate motor function of the lower limbs and nutritional status, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to examine the potential relationship between cachexia and low SPPB scores (≤ 9 points). The prevalence of cachexia was 30% in this study. Compared with those without cachexia, patients with cachexia were significantly older and showed notable reductions in body mass index, MNA-SF scores, handgrip strength, gait speed, and SPPB scores. A multivariate logistic regression analysis, adjusted for confounders, revealed that both age (odds ratio [OR], 1.129; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.034–1.248; P = 0.016) and presence of cachexia (OR, 3.783; 95% CI, 1.213–11.796; P = 0.022) were independently associated with low SPPB scores. These findings highlight the importance of focusing on cachexia in patients with HF as part of a comprehensive outpatient CR and may be crucial in developing treatments to improve lower limb motor function in patients with HF who develops cachexia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]