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The Johannesburg cardiac rehabilitation programme
A G Digenio1, J G Sim, K Krige
1Cardiac Rehabilitation Centre, Johannesburg City Health Department.
South African Medical Journal = Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif Vir Geneeskunde
|February 16, 1991
Summary
This study on cardiac rehabilitation in Johannesburg found that patients who adhered to exercise and lifestyle changes showed improved fitness and health markers. However, the program experienced a significant 50% dropout rate within a year.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Preventive Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Cardiac rehabilitation is a standard treatment for coronary artery disease.
- The Johannesburg cardiac rehabilitation program, established in 1982, is one of Southern Africa's largest.
- This study analyzes 387 patients admitted between June 1986 and July 1988.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a combined exercise training and lifestyle modification program.
- To assess patient outcomes in a large South African cardiac rehabilitation setting.
- To identify common patient demographics and risk factors.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 387 patients admitted to the Johannesburg cardiac rehabilitation program.
- Evaluation of a combined exercise training and lifestyle modification intervention.
- Assessment of patient adherence and outcomes at 6 and 12 months.
Main Results:
- Common admissions: myocardial infarction (35.4%), coronary artery bypass graft (23%), and both (21.2%).
- High prevalence of risk factors: 72.9% smokers, 26.3% hypertension, 34.3% hypercholesterolemia.
- Patients with good adherence showed improved peak oxygen uptake, weight/skinfold reduction, and lipogram after 6 months.
Conclusions:
- Cardiac rehabilitation, combining exercise and lifestyle changes, improves patient outcomes.
- High dropout rates (50% within 12 months) pose a challenge to program effectiveness.
- Cardiac rehabilitation serves as a crucial secondary preventive strategy complementing medical and surgical treatments.