Cardiac rehabilitation in Canada and Arab countries: comparing availability and program characteristics

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases present a significant health burden in Arab nations.
• Understanding the delivery and characteristics of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs in the Arab World is crucial but limited.
• This study aims to assess CR availability and program features in Arab countries, comparing them with Canada.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the availability and characteristics of cardiac rehabilitation programs in Arab countries.
• To compare CR program delivery in the Arab World with established programs in Canada.
• To identify barriers affecting CR provision in both regions.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study utilizing a questionnaire adapted from existing CR program surveys.
• Surveys were distributed to identified CR program contacts in 22 Arab countries and the Canadian Association of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation directory.
• Descriptive statistics and interpretive-descriptive coding were used for data analysis.

Main Results:

• Only 5 out of 8 identified CR programs in Arab countries participated, compared to 39 out of 128 in Canada.
• Core components of CR programs were consistent between Arab countries and Canada, with Arab programs more frequently offering women-only classes.
• Lack of human resources was the primary barrier in both regions; space was a barrier in Arab settings, and financial resources in Canada. Median patients served: 200 (Arab) vs. 300 (Canada).

Conclusions:

• Cardiac rehabilitation program availability is notably limited in Arab countries, even in high-income nations within the region.
• Existing CR programs in Arab countries demonstrate delivery models consistent with those in Canada.
• Addressing resource limitations, particularly human resources, is essential for expanding CR services in the Arab World.