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Research has shown the following benefits from cardiac rehabilitation:
- Better chance of avoiding disability and returning to work
- Decreased risk of a recurrence of the heart problem
- Decreased risk of death due to heart disease
- Decreased risk of future heart attack
- Fewer episodes of reduced blood flow to the heart (cardiac ischemia)
- Improved physical functioning and strength
- Less of a need for heart-related medications
- Lower blood pressure
- Lower levels of both “bad” low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and fats in the blood (triglycerides)
- Relief from depression, fear and anxiety
- Slowed development, or even reversal, of hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis)
- Weight loss, as many individuals with coronary artery disease are overweight
Patients participating in rehabilitation programs tend to have improved outcomes in managing their condition. Patients are more apt to stick with their drug regimens, and hospital re-admissions tend to be reduced.
Furthermore, programs that involve individual and/or family counseling can help to address the common issues that arise as a result of heart disease. These issues range from sexual concerns to increased tension within the family. Strong ties to both family and friends enhance overall quality-of-life factors. This is particularly important for heart patients, because this support has been linked to better survival rates.
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