Objective. Lifestyle modification should be acquired during phase II and maintained thereafter. We have designed a new 2-week hospitalized phase II CR program. The purpose of the present study is to clarify whether quality of life (QOL), the psychological and physical status of patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) improves after participation in the program. Methods. Fifty-one patients with acute MI were enrolled in the program. Another 34 patients with acute MI who did not participate in the program served as a control group. The rehabilitation program consisted of exercise training, education and counseling. QOL, the physical and psychological status of the patients was evaluated before, at 1-month after the program, and at 6- and 12-month follow-up. Quality of life (QOL) was assessed using established and validated QOL scales. The psychological status was assessed by the Spielberger state-trait anxiety inventory questionnaire (STAI) and self-rating questionnaire for depression (SRQ-D). Results. After participation in the program, the exercise tolerance, serum lipid profiles and STAI anxiety score of the patients were improved significantly. At 6-month follow-up, these parameters remained improved and regular physical activity was maintained. QOL score was also improved significantly. Even at 12-month follow-up, lipid profiles remained improved and regular physical activity was maintained. Conclusion. Two-week hospitalized phase II CR program improved QOL and the management of cardiac risk factors in patients with MI. This program provides beneficial effects on QOL, psychological and physical activities in the recovery phase and may also contribute to the secondary prevention of MI.
Support:The Grand for The Japanese Scientific.Research (No1371552). Grant MSM0021622402, CZ.
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