In a first-ever evaluation of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program in Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), researchers found that of the almost 700 patients enrolled from its inception in 2013 to 2018, over 80% completed the program post-assessment, a rate that is higher than what is observed in Western settings.
The program is the first and sole cardiac rehabilitation program in Qatar. Patients of this program can take full advantage of its offerings such as patient education, structured exercise and psychosocial counselling.
Senior author of the study, Dr. Karam Turk-Adawi of Qatar University (QU) says, “Despite the large amount of evidence documenting the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation in Western settings, this study is among the few studies establishing this in the Eastern Mediterranean Region where cardiovascular disease is dramatically increasing.”
Patients who participated in the approximately 9-week program achieved clinically meaningful reductions in their heart risk factors such as cholesterol, tobacco use and blood pressure. They also greatly improved their functional capacity to do the activities they enjoy, and their quality of life in many domains. This all likely translates to reduced death and disability over the long-term. These results are revealed in a study published on 8 October 2021 in the journal Global Heart, of the World Heart Federation.
Dr. Mohammed Al-Hashemi, Program Director and Co-investigator, underlined the need for program expansion while providing quality services. “We hope to launch a satellite program so we can treat all the patients in need every year with our low-cost, high-quality program delivered by an expert team of nurses, exercise specialists, dietitians, among others.”
Prof. Sherry L. Grace of York University in Canada, co-author and immediate past-chair of the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation (ICCPR) says, “Based on what we know about cardiac rehab delivery around the world, Qatar’s program is world-class. We are thrilled Qatar is joining our international cardiac rehabilitation registry, and they can showcase their program compared to others around the globe”
Two QU students were part of the team that conducted the study. Masters of Public Health students, Rahma Saad and Eman Faisal.
To learn more about whether you can benefit from this program, contact 5565 6836.