Yoga-CaRe Program Shows Benefits for Heart Failure Patients
A study on yoga-based cardiac rehabilitation shows improved quality of life for heart failure patients through better exercise capacity and health behaviors.
NEW DELHI, Nov 10: A study investigating the effects of yoga-based cardiac rehabilitation, known as Yoga-CaRe, has shown positive results for individuals with heart failure. Conducted across 16 hospitals in India, the research focused on nearly 3,500 patients suffering from heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.
The trial found that participants who engaged in the Yoga-CaRe program experienced significant improvements in quality of life and exercise capacity. Specifically, patients reported an 8.1 unit improvement on the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire and walked 25.5 meters further in six minutes compared to the control group.
According to Prof. Dorairaj Prabhakaran from the Centre for Chronic Disease Control, the study demonstrates that a comprehensive approach can serve as a viable alternative to traditional cardiac rehabilitation methods. He stated, “Improving quality of life and functional capacity in patients with heart failure is essential everywhere but particularly in India.”
The Yoga-CaRe program consisted of three main components: health education through a booklet, guided behavior change focused on goal-setting, and structured yoga practices that included physical postures, breathing techniques, and relaxation methods. Patients were encouraged to practice yoga for 50–55 minutes daily for up to 24 months, with many attending about 19 supervised sessions during the initial three months.
Though there was a 10% reduction in clinical events such as hospitalization and death, the results were not statistically significant. However, improvements were consistently noted in patient health behaviors, including increased physical activity and dietary changes. Prof. SC Manchanda, a senior cardiologist involved in the study, referred to yoga as a lifestyle choice for better health.
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