ABSTRACT
Background: Cardiac rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the management and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Understanding the longitudinal trends of cardiac risk factors, recurring clinical events, and medication adherence in patients undergoing in-hospital cardiac rehabilitation is essential for optimizing patient outcomes.
Aim: This prospective cohort study aimed to analyze the longitudinal changes in cardiac risk factors, recurring clinical events, and medication adherence among a cohort of 90 patients undergoing in-hospital cardiac rehabilitation over the course of one year, from December 2022 to December 2023.
Methods: Participants were enrolled upon admission to the cardiac rehabilitation program and followed up at regular intervals throughout the one-year study period. Data on cardiac risk factors including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, smoking status, and obesity were collected at baseline and during follow-up visits. Recurring clinical events such as myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiac arrhythmias were monitored throughout the study period. Medication adherence was assessed using self-reported measures and pharmacy refill records.
Results: Analysis of the longitudinal data revealed significant changes in cardiac risk factors over time. While improvements were observed in several risk factors such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels, challenges in maintaining optimal medication adherence were evident. Recurring clinical events were observed in a subset of patients, highlighting the ongoing need for comprehensive cardiac care beyond the initial rehabilitation phase.
Conclusion: The findings of this study underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and support for patients undergoing in-hospital cardiac rehabilitation. Strategies aimed at enhancing medication adherence and addressing persistent risk factors are crucial for long-term cardiovascular health outcomes in this population.
Keywords: Cardiac rehabilitation, longitudinal analysis, cardiac risk factors, medication adherence, recurring clinical events.