Η συμβολή της Μυϊκής Ενδυνάμωσης στην Καρδιοαγγειακή Αποκατάσταση

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally. An estimated 17.9 million people died from CVDs in 2019, according to the latest data of World Health Organization. Cardiovascular diseases are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels and they include coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, peripheral arterial disease, rheumatic heart disease, congenital heart disease and deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Deaths from cardiovascular diseases are in 80% due to heart attack and stroke, while 1/3 of these deaths happen under the age of 70. The main risk factors of heart disease and stroke are high blood pressure and LDL cholesterol, type I and II diabetes, obesity and unhealthy lifestyle that is alcohol consumption, poor diet and sedentary lifestyle. Prevention, diagnosis and treatment of the disease can prevent premature death. Over the past years, scientists were convinced that strength training could be harmful to patients with cardiovascular diseases, due to the dramatic increase in heart rate and blood pressure and unfavorable left ventricular remodeling. However, these data have been overturned as resistance training has been recognized as a safe and effective way of exercise in the rehabilitation of patients with cardiovascular diseases. Prescribed and supervised training with resistance exercises, enhances muscular strength and endurance, improves functional ability and independence, as well as the quality of life in people suffering from cardiovascular diseases. These benefits have established resistance training as a key component of the rehabilitation program. According to World Health Organization, 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week, can reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease by 30%, as well as the risk of stroke and hypertension. The American Heart Association, in the beginning of the 21st century, published the first recommendations for prescribed resistance exercise in cardiac patients. These guidelines, based on research data, have collateral benefits on muscle strength and health, especially on the structure and function of the cardiovascular system, reducing the cardiovascular disease risk factors.