Background

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a multidisciplinary intervention designed to improve recovery following cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass grafting, heart failure, and percutaneous coronary intervention. Despite strong evidence supporting its benefits, participation rates remain suboptimal.

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of cardiac rehabilitation programs on long-term clinical outcomes, functional capacity, quality of life, cardiovascular risk reduction, hospital readmissions, and mortality.

Methods

A multicenter prospective cohort study was conducted among 1,500 patients recovering from major cardiovascular events. Participants were categorized into cardiac rehabilitation and non-rehabilitation groups and followed for five years. Outcomes assessed included mortality, recurrent cardiac events, exercise capacity, quality of life, and hospitalization rates.

Results

Patients who completed cardiac rehabilitation demonstrated a 31% reduction in all-cause mortality, a 28% reduction in recurrent cardiovascular events, and a 35% decrease in hospital readmissions compared with non-participants. Significant improvements were observed in exercise tolerance, lipid profiles, blood pressure control, and psychosocial well-being.

Conclusion

Cardiac rehabilitation significantly improves long-term cardiovascular outcomes and quality of life. Healthcare systems should prioritize broader access and participation in rehabilitation programs to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.