This interesting prospective epidemiological study analyses the relationship between leisure time physical activity and the risk of death in the 15 years after a first myocardial infarction in patients younger than 65 years.
The main finding is that the risk is importantly reduced (odds ratio 0,56) in patients who were regularly physically active (at least 3 times 30 minutes/week) as compared to inactive patients. In the group which was “irregularly” physically active (less than 3 x 30 minutes), the reduction was less important (odds ratio 0,71), but still statistically and clinically significant.
The physical activity before the infarction did not have an influence on mortality during follow-up. Approximately 28% of patients was regularly physically active before the infarction. This number increased to 40% after the infarction (over the whole study duration).
This study again confirms two important points: most patients remain sedentary after a myocardial infarction. And if we could find ways to increase regular activity in this population, the risk of recurrent ischemic heart disease and death would be significantly decreased. This is again an argument for the development of phase III (lifelong) rehabilitation programs in settings where participation is maximal.
Lastly : as the pre-infarction physical activity did not influence recurrence and death during follow-up, it is never too late to start moving!