Impact of the second stage of cardiac rehabilitation on BMI in patients after cardiac incidents

Background
Cardiovascular disease is currently one of the leading causes of death in the world, and a major contributing factor is the increasing incidence of excessive body mass. On the other hand, reduction of body mass in patients who have experienced a myocardial infarction significantly reduces the risk of a second episode of cardiovascular disease. This in turn increases lifespan, improves quality of life, and reduces the number of premature deaths.

Material and methods
The study included 41 people (14 women with an average age of 62.5 years and 27 men with an average age of 61.2 years) who experienced a cardiac incident between January 2015 and February 2016 and who were qualified for the second stage of cardiac rehabilitation conducted in accordance with applicable standards.

Results
BMI did not correlate with the results of exercise tests. The training improved the fitness and endurance of the subjects and allowed reduction of body mass.

Conclusions
After 8 weeks of the second stage of cardiac rehabilitation, there were significant changes in the BMI in patients undergoing the study. Exercise tolerance and physical capacity in all the groups was improved.