Outcome of a supervised cardiovascular rehabilitation programme on muscle strength, symptoms, and functional capacity in patients with stable chronic heart failure: A multicentre longitudinal study in Yaoundé, Cameroon

Functional Outcomes of Cardiac Rehabilitation

  • Tsague Kengni Hermann Nestor Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde, Cameroon; Cardiac Prevention Foundation, Yaounde, Cameroon
  • Ndobo Valérie Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde, Cameroon
  • Laurence Ngo Yon Carole Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde, Cameroon; Cardiac Prevention Foundation, Yaounde, Cameroon
  • Eric Wakeu Wachou Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde, Cameroon
  • Nafissatou Nsangou Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde, Cameroon
  • Christelle Menoue Djimafo Cardiac Prevention Foundation, Yaounde, Cameroon
  • Edgar Mandeng Ma Linwa University of Buea
  • Chris Nadege Nganou-Gnindjio Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
  • Djibrilla Siddikatou Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46829/hsijournal.2026.7.9.1.1565-1569
Keywords: cardiac rehabilitation, chronic heart failure, segmental muscle strength, functional capacity, Cameroon

Abstract

Background: Peripheral muscle weakness contributes significantly to exercise intolerance in chronic heart failure (CHF).
Objective: This study evaluated the impact of a supervised cardiovascular rehabilitation (CVR) program on segmental muscle strength, symptoms, and functional capacity in stable CHF patients in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
Methods: In this multicentre longitudinal study, adults aged ≥18 years with stable CHF (NYHA class I-III) underwent a standardised outpatient CVR program targeting 18 sessions (3 sessions/week over 6–7 weeks on average; minimum 15 sessions; median 18, range 15–20).
The program comprised aerobic exercise (treadmill/cycling at 50 – 75% heart rate reserve) interspersed with segmental resistance training (body weight/light loads, 10 – 15 repetitions × 2–3 sets for major muscle groups), warm-up, cool-down, and therapeutic education. Baseline data were retrospectively extracted from program intake records; post-intervention assessments were prospectively conducted within one week of completion. The primary outcome was lower-limb muscle strength (handheld dynamometry: quadriceps). Secondary outcomes included symptoms (dyspnoea, palpitations), body weight, Duke Activity Status Index (DASI), six-minute walk test (6MWT) distance, and peak metabolic equivalents/estimated VO₂max (cycle ergometer). Pre–post changes were analysed with Wilcoxon signed-rank tests (p <0.05).
Results: The cohort (median age 56 years; 54% female; 70% preserved ejection fraction) showed significant improvements post-CVR. Lower limb strength increased dramatically (median 0.0 to 10.0 kgf, p < 0.001). Symptoms reduced markedly (dyspnoea: 22% to 2%, p = 0.037, palpitations: 16% to 2%, p < 0.001). Functional capacity improved robustly: 6MWT +100 m (400 to 500 m, p < 0.001), DASI score +26.25 (24.45 to 50.70, p < 0.001), peak METs +3.37 (p < 0.001), estimated VO₂max +11.72 ml/kg/min (p < 0.001). A modest weight loss of -1.5kg occurred (p = 0.001). No adverse events were reported.
Conclusion: A supervised CVR program with combined aerobic and resistance training significantly enhanced lower limb strength, reduced symptoms, and improved functional capacity in stable CHF patients in a resource-limited setting. These findings support CVR implementation to optimise outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa.

Published
2026-07-09
Issue
Vol 9 No 1 (2026): Health Sciences Investigations (HSI)  Journal volume 9, Issue 1.
Section
Original Research Article