Toronto: A new study sheds light on its vital role patient education In Management heart diseaseThe researchers investigated Information needed The study covered more than 1,600 heart patients from different regions, providing important insights into the challenges faced by individuals suffering from heart-related problems.

Cardiovascular diseases continue to affect millions of people worldwide. Patients experiencing a cardiac event (such as a heart attack) often find themselves entangled in a complex maze of symptoms, medications and lifestyle changes. Understanding the critical role of patient education in this journey, our international team of researchers sought to identify the specific information needs of cardiac patients globally.

Our study used a validated scale, the Need for Information Cardiac Rehabilitation (INCR-S), to assess the top information needs of cardiac/cardiovascular patients. Administered in different countries spanning all six regions of the World Health Organization and covering different income groups, this scale provided a comprehensive view of patients’ information needs.

The diverse needs of cardiac patients

Our findings showed that patients have a strong desire for information on a wide range of health topics. They want to understand cardiac events, adopt a heart-healthy diet, manage medications, recognize symptoms, control risk factors, and join cardiac rehabilitation programs. This highlights the need for comprehensive patient education to meet the diverse needs of cardiac patients.

Studies consistently show that education in cardiac rehabilitation is associated with significant benefits. These include patients’ better understanding of their condition, improved medication adherence, management of risk factors, and reduced hospital readmissions and mortality.

By comprehensively addressing these informational needs, patients can make more informed decisions about their health and improve their overall well-being.

Our study also highlighted significant variations in information needs and income levels across regions and income levels Knowledge Sufficiency (whether or not they feel they already know enough about each topic).

While patients in high-income countries reported greater knowledge adequacy, those in low-middle income countries expressed an urgent need for more information, particularly with regard to medication management, symptom response, and exercise benefits. These disparities underscore the importance of tailoring educational interventions to the specific contexts and needs of diverse populations.

The role of cardiac rehabilitation programs

Importantly, the study underscored the critical role of cardiac rehabilitation programs in addressing patients’ information needs. These programs provide structured education and support, empowering patients to understand and manage their conditions effectively, leading to better health outcomes such as greater knowledge about the disease, adoption of heart-healthy behaviors, increased functional capacity, and improved quality of life.

However, our research also identified challenges in providing comprehensive education through these programs, highlighting the continued need to improve patient education. The availability of evidence-based resources provided by the Cardiac College, which are available for free and in multiple languages, plays a vital role in bridging the gap in patient education.

These resources ensure patients receive accurate information and support in their preferred language, empowering them to take more control of their health and well-being.

As healthcare providers grapple with the challenges posed by cardiovascular disease, the findings of this study provide valuable insights to inform educational strategies and interventions. Prioritising patient education and addressing the diverse information needs of cardiac patients can significantly improve outcomes and enhance the quality of care for individuals with cardiovascular disease. (The Conversation) NSA NSA