Understanding Barriers and Facilitators to Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Participation Among Rural Residents With Cardiovascular Disease in Brazil

Objective This study explored barriers to cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) participation among individuals with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and risk factors in a rural, low‐resource setting. Design A qualitative study using focus groups. Sample 21 individuals (76% women, 71% with CVD risk factors, 48% with incomplete elementary education) were recruited from a public health system. Measurements Data were collected through six focus groups and analyzed using thematic analysis. Intervention None. Results Six overarching themes emerged. Participants had limited awareness of CR, with lack of knowledge being the primary barrier. Technological challenges hindered engagement with telerehabilitation programs. Medication was the most common treatment strategy, but patients expressed a need for more information. While physical exercise was recognized as important, barriers such as lack of time and motivation prevented participation. Perceptions of health status varied, with some reporting improvements and others experiencing deterioration. Family support and access to virtual programs were identified as facilitators of CR participation. Conclusions Strategies to improve CR awareness, enhance virtual access, and strengthen patient education are needed to increase participation in rural populations.