The control of cardiovascular risk factors – an essential component of the rehabilitation of patients with ischemic heart disease. What are the current targets?

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases continue to cause the highest mortality in Europe, among both men and women. Ischemic heart disease is responsible for most of these deaths. An important role in decreasing mortality and improving the prognosis of patients diagnosed with this disorder is played by cardiovascular rehabilitation programs. The short hospitalization period of patients with acute coronary syndromes who undergo revascularization procedures (in-hospital rehabilitation) becomes extremely useful to determine the cardiovascular risk factors underlying the development of these diseases and to implement lifestyle changing measures. Patients with ischemic heart disease included in rehabilitation programs will not only have the advantage of an increased exercise capacity, but they will also be monitored by qualified medical personnel for the evolution of cardiovascular risk factors. We aim to summarize the objectives to be targeted regarding these risk factors in the presence of a patient with ischemic heart disease included in cardiovascular rehabilitation programs. Key words: cardiovascular risk factors, cardiovascular rehabilitation,