Non-Pharmacological Strategies to Boost Physical Activity in Coronary Heart Disease: Insights from a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains the leading cause of mortality worldwide, representing a significant public health challenge. Physical activity is well established as a protective factor that reduces the risk of recurrent cardiac events and improves overall cardiovascular health. Conversely, increasing evidence has identified sedentary behavior—characterized by prolonged sitting or low energy expenditure activities—as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Despite the importance of these behavioral factors, adherence to physical activity guidelines among patients with CHD is often suboptimal, and sedentary time is frequently excessive. Thus, identifying effective, non-pharmacological interventions to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior is crucial for secondary prevention in this population.

Study Design and Methods