August 1, 2021Open Access
Physical Activity in the Treatment and Prevention of Heart Failure: An Update
Key Result
Exercise training and habitual physical activity have an established role in the treatment of heart failure and supportive evidence for its primary prevention.
Structured PICO
Does physical activity improve outcomes in the treatment and prevention of heart failure?
P
Population
Patients with heart failure or at risk for heart failure
I
Intervention
Exercise training and habitual physical activity
This review highlights the established role of exercise training in heart failure treatment and the supportive evidence for physical activity in its primary prevention.
Abstract
ABSTRACT: Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome hallmarked by an inability to match cardiac output with metabolic demand, resulting in exercise intolerance. HF is increasingly prevalent in an aging population and accounts for substantial burden of health care costs and morbidity. Because many of the central and peripheral mechanisms of HF respond favorably to exercise training, its role in HF treatment is becoming established. The role of habitual physical activity in the primary prevention of HF is less clear; however, available evidence is supportive. This article reviews recently published studies on exercise training and usual physical activity in HF treatment and prevention, discusses potential mechanisms, and suggests areas where further research is needed.