Experts share the everyday habit that can slash hospital risk for heart patients

Researchers say prescribing exercise to people with heart problems could slash hospital admissions, with home-based digital programmes just as beneficial as in-person sessions.

Experts at the University of Glasgow analysed 107 trials involving 26,886 people with coronary heart disease, which happens when fatty deposits narrow or block the arteries that supply blood to the heart. Most patients had had a heart attack, experienced chest pain, or undergone a heart procedure.

The new review found that working out can play a “vital role” in recovery, as exercise-based rehabilitation slashed the risk of heart attacks by 28 per cent.

It also helped reduce hospital admissions by 35 per cent.

Dr Grace Dibben, from the University of Glasgow, said the review “shows that exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation can reduce the risk of heart attack and hospital admission while helping people return to healthier, more active lives.

“Many people lose confidence after a heart attack or cardiac procedure and worry that physical activity could be dangerous.

“Appropriately prescribed exercise is not only safe for most patients, but can play a vital role in recovery and long-term heart health.”

The analysis included 22 new trials featuring almost 3,500 people. The studies included patients in low and middle-income countries who were testing digital programmes.

Researchers suggest exercise completed in the home may be just as beneficial as attending in-person sessions.

Professor Rod Taylor, also of the University of Glasgow, said: “This review confirms that exercise is a great tool for improving the overall health of people with coronary heart disease.

“By adding newer studies to this update, we’re able to see that digital programmes work as well as in-person programmes, which really changes the game here.

“These approaches may help us reach people who cannot attend traditional centre-based services.”

Dr Dibben added: “Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation is an inexpensive and cost-effective intervention, but right now it’s underfunded and unprioritised.

“We want this option to be available to everyone.

“This new research shows you don’t even have to go into a rehab centre to benefit – you can participate from home and still see the benefits.”