Is it possible that a cardiac rehabilitation program can reduce the cardiovascular risk in individuals with metabolic syndrome?

Background: Metabolic syndrome is a complex disorder represented by a set of cardiovascular risk factors usually related to central fat deposition, insulin resistance, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. It is associated with accelerated atherosclerosis in response to chronic inflammation and vascular endothelial dysfunction, increasing overall mortality. Objective: We aimed to evaluate the effect of a cardiac rehabilitation program on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with metabolic syndrome. Methods: This is prospective interventional study. All patients underwent a 20-session cardiac rehabilitation program with aerobic and resisted exercises as well as an educational program for lifestyle changes. Results: Forty-seven patients participated in the present study. After the cardiac rehabilitation program (CRP), a significant reduction (p = 0,0092) for cardiovascular risk and fatigue (p > 0.001) was observed; 78% of the patients had positive effects on physical capacity, 72% of the patients presented HbA1c reduction, 51% increased HDL-cholesterol, 70% reduced total cholesterol, 63% reduced triglycerides, 61% reduced systolic blood pressure and 53% reduced diastolic blood pressure. Conclusion: Cardiac rehabilitation program with aerobic and resisted exercises associated with educational program for lifestyle changes is an effective approach in the treatment of patients with metabolic syndrome mainly seen by a reduced cardiovascular risk factors and reducing fatigue, improved physical capacity and reduced components of metabolic syndrome.