Impact of Cardiac Rehabilitation and Exercise Training on Psychological Risk Factors and Subsequent Prognosis in Patients With Cardiovascular Disease

The role of psychological risk factors has been under-recognized in most subspecialties of medicine, as well as in general medicine practices. However, considerable evidence indicates that psychosocial factors are involved in the pathogenesis and progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Emerging data from cardiac rehabilitation (CR) settings and CR exercise training (CRET) programs have demonstrated the value of comprehensive CRET to improve psychological functioning and reduce all-cause mortality. Recent evidence also supports the role of CRET and the added value of stress management training in the secondary prevention of CVD.