A narrative review on women and cardiac rehabilitation: program adherence and preferences for alternative models of care

Abstract

Despite the preponderance of evidence on the numerous benefits of CR, it remains largely under-utilized in women. The objective of this narrative review was to summarize and synthesize the literature on women and CR with regard to outcomes, adherence, and preferences for alternative models of CR. Studies of the effectiveness of CR have generally revealed no major differences between men and women. However, female-specific data are lacking on the effect of CR on mortality and morbidity. Research suggests that women and men may be equally likely to prefer home-based to hospital-based CR services. Women's preferences for and outcomes in, women-only CR are beginning to be uncovered. Discussing program model options with female cardiac patients and referring to preferred types may be the appropriate approach until further evidence is available.