Cardiac Rehabilitation for Cardiovascular Risk Reduction in People With Severe and Persistent Mental Illness

Launched by LADY DAVIS INSTITUTE · Dec 12, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating how to reduce the risk of heart disease in people who have severe mental illnesses, like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. The researchers want to see if a special heart health program can help these individuals live healthier lives and lower their chances of having heart-related problems. Participants will be divided into two groups: one will follow the heart health program, while the other will not, allowing researchers to compare the results and learn more about the effects.

To be eligible for this trial, participants should be between 30 and 59 years old and have a diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or bipolar I disorder. They also need to have at least two risk factors for heart disease, such as being overweight, smoking, or having high blood pressure. If you join the study, you can expect to take part in a program designed to improve your heart health while being supported by healthcare professionals. It’s important to note that not everyone can participate; for example, those who are currently experiencing severe psychiatric issues or have certain heart conditions will not be included.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age ≥ 30 to 59 years old
• • Psychiatric diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or bipolar I disorder
• • 2 or more cardiac risk behaviors or conditions: smoking, obese, hypertension, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, dyslipidemia, obstructive sleep apnea
• • 10-year Framingham cardiovascular risk score of ≥ 10% (intermediate risk)
• • Willing to participate in cardiac rehabilitation program
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Psychiatric instability, as judged by treating psychiatrist
• • Distance from cardiac rehabilitation centre that would preclude participation
• • Unsafe to participate in the cardiac rehabilitation intervention, as judged by the cardiology assessment
• • Pregnant
• • Known coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, or peripheral vascular disease
• • Court ordered mandatory or tutor

Trial Officials