Cardiac Rehab Offers Significant Survival and Wellness Gains

New Research Highlights Long-Term Benefits for Heart Patients

Cardiac rehabilitation is a cornerstone for recovery after heart events, with new findings underscoring its profound impact on both survival rates and overall well-being. Presenters at the ASPC 2025 Congress on Cardiac Prevention revealed compelling data supporting its efficacy.

Improved Prognosis for Acute Coronary Syndrome Survivors

Research drawing from Hungary’s National Myocardial Infarction Register analyzed data from over 66,000 early survivors of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The findings strongly indicate that participation in cardiac rehabilitation significantly reduces mortality, both one and five years post-event.

Of those who engaged in cardiac rehabilitation, a mere 6.3% experienced 1-year mortality, compared to 12.1% for non-participants. This trend continued long-term, with 20.1% of rehab participants dying within five years versus 30.4% of those who did not participate.

The benefits were evident across different ACS types. For ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) patients, 1-year mortality dropped from 9.1% to 4.7% with rehabilitation. Similarly, non-STEMI patients saw their 1-year mortality decrease from 14.1% to 8.7%.

Enhanced Physical and Mental Health Outcomes

Beyond survival, cardiac rehabilitation demonstrably improves quality of life. A separate study focused on the physical and mental health trajectory of patients post-rehabilitation. Participants who completed their programs showed greater improvements in depressive symptoms and higher activity levels, measured by metabolic equivalents (METs).

After one year, graduates of cardiac rehabilitation reported fewer symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain, with only 32% experiencing these issues compared to 63% of those who did not graduate. Furthermore, 79% of graduates could perform daily activities, a marked increase from 69% of non-graduates.

The study also revealed a boost in workforce participation, with 24% of graduates returning to work versus 15% of those who did not graduate. These positive results, despite some limitations related to the COVID-19 pandemic affecting participant retention, highlight the comprehensive advantages of these programs.

The American Heart Association recommends cardiac rehabilitation for individuals with various heart conditions, including those who have undergone surgery, experienced a heart attack, or have chronic conditions like heart failure. Programs typically incorporate education for healthy living, stress-reducing counseling, and tailored exercise regimens.

Considering that only about 21% of ACS survivors nationwide participate in cardiac rehabilitation programs, as indicated by the Hungarian study’s participation rates, there is a clear need for increased awareness and accessibility. Enhancing participation could significantly improve public health outcomes.

Overall, the evidence strongly supports cardiac rehabilitation as an essential component of cardiovascular care, offering substantial benefits for long-term prognosis and enhancing both the physical and mental health of patients.