Beyond Recovery: How Exercise-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation Improves Outcomes in Coronary Heart Disease

Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Advances in medical treatment and coronary revascularisation have improved survival, but many patients continue to experience symptoms, reduced physical functioning and an increased risk of recurrent cardiovascular events.

Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) aims to improve long-term outcomes through structured physical activity, either alone or combined with education and psychosocial support. Although CR is widely recommended, questions remain regarding its effects on mortality, cardiovascular events, hospitalisation and quality of life.