Archive | 2021
Efficacy of interventions to increase physical activity for people with heart failure: a meta-analysis
Abstract
Objectives This meta-analysis aims to 1) evaluate the efficacy of physical activity interventions in heart failure and 2) to identify intervention characteristics significantly associated with the interventions efficacy. Methods Randomised controlled trials reporting intervention effects on physical activity in heart failure were combined in a meta-analysis using a random-effect model. Exploratory meta-analysis was performed by specifying the general approach (e.g. cardiac rehabilitation), strategies used (e.g. action planning), setting (e.g. centre-based), mode of delivery (e.g. face-to-face or online), facilitator (e.g. nurse), contact time, and behaviour change theory use as predictors in the random-effect model. Results Interventions (n=21) had a significant overall effect (SMD=0.54,95% CI:[0.13; 0.95],p<0.005). Combining an exercise programme with behaviour change intervention was found efficacious (SMD = 1.26,95% CI: [0.26;2.26],p<0.05). Centre- (SMD=0.98,95% CI: [0.35;1.62],p<0.001), and group- based (SMD=0.89,95 % CI: [0.29;1.50],p<0.001) delivery by a physiotherapist (SMD=0.84,95% CI: [0.03;1.65]],p<0.01) were significantly associated with efficacy. The following strategies were identified efficacious: prompts/cues (SMD=3.29,95% CI:[1.97;4.62]), credible source (SMD=2.08,95% CI:[0.95;3.22]), adding objects to the environment (SMD=1.47,95% CI:[0.41;2.53]), generalisation of the target behaviour (SMD=1.32,95% CI:[0.22;2.41]), monitoring of behaviour by others without feedback (SMD=1.02,95% CI:[0.05;1.98]), self-monitoring of outcome(s) of behaviour (SMD=0.79,95% CI:[0.06;1.52]), graded tasks (SMD=0.73,95% CI:[0.22;1.24]), behavioural practice/rehearsal (SMD=0.72,95% CI:[0.26;1.18]), action planning (SMD=0.62,95% CI:[0.03;1.21]), and goal setting (behaviour) (SMD=0.56,95% CI:[0.03;1.08]). Conclusion: The meta-analysis suggests intervention characteristics that may be suitable for promoting physical activity in heart failure. There is moderate evidence in support of an exercise programme combined with a behaviour change intervention delivered by a physiotherapist in a group- and centre-based settings..