Results of cardiac rehabilitation in patients with diabetes mellitus.

To study the prevalence, risk profile, and outcomes of diabetics in cardiac rehabilitation, data on 952 consecutively enrolled patients were evaluated. Diabetics on entry had poor glycemic control, and compared with nondiabetics, had a greater adverse risk profile (body mass index, waist circumference, hypertension, triglycerides, peripheral vascular disease, and lower fitness levels), and a lower program adherence rate. Although exercise capacity significantly improved, it is clear from the outcomes reported in this study that more effective interventions in weight management, lipid lowering, and glycemic control are needed. This study emphasizes the need to identify diabetic patients in contemporary cardiac rehabilitation programs and target them for an aggressive program of risk factor management, including exercise training.