Optimising secondary prevention: Effect of cardiac rehabilitation duration on cardiovascular risk profile modification
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MedicineAbstract
Background: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality in Ireland, accounting for 36% of all deaths. While it is well documented that exercise pro- grammes are of benefit in risk factor modification in the cardiac population, the optimal exercise rehabilitation programme duration remains unclear.
Study Aim: This study aimed to analyse the effect of cardiac rehabilitation pro- gramme duration on cardiovascular risk factor modification in patients with es- tablished coronary artery disease, whilst assessing the effectiveness of existing programmes.
Methods: In this retrospective, observational study, subjects (male, low risk car- diac patients, aged 50-69 years, mean age = 59 ± 4 years) were randomised into a 6-week or 8-week exercise programme. Each programme consisted of 15 exercise sessions, of 50 minute duration, with equal time distribution on each of 7 exercise stations (treadmill, cross-trainer, exercise bicycle, ball, rowing machine, arm er- gometer and weights) at 60% of maximal heart rate. During the programme, rest- ing heart rate, blood pressure, waist circumference and body mass index were monitored at regular intervals.
Results: There was no significant reduction in any of the parameters for either the 6-week or the 8-week programme. There was no significant difference be- tween the 6-week and 8-week programmes in modification of any risk param- eters.
Conclusion: This study revealed no significant difference between a 6-week and 8-week cardiac rehabilitation programme in cardiovascular risk factor modifica- tion in the cardiac population.
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