For women with cardiovascular disease, cardiac rehabilitation programs save lives, but are still underused. New resources could help more women take control of their cardiac health.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain a significant global health challenge, claiming countless lives and causing disability worldwide. While historically seen as a predominantly male issue, it’s crucial to recognize that CVD affects women just as profoundly.
Despite advancements in acute care, women with CVD face higher risks of recurrent events and death, highlighting the need for effective strategies to prevent recurrences in women with CVD. This is called secondary prevention.
Cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) stands as a proven outpatient model for secondary preventive care, yet its potential, especially for women, remains underused. Meta-analyses have shown fewer women than men are referred to CR programs, and even after referral, women are less likely than men to enrol and adhere.
The emergence of women-focused cardiac rehabilitation programs has been a pivotal shift towards addressing this disparity. Despite their........