Quality of life and self-efficacy: a meta-analysis and systematic review of cardiac interventions

Abstract

Background: The aim of the study was to meta-analyse the associations between quality of life (QoL) and self-efficacy (SE) among cardiovascular patients and to review the effects of cardiac rehabilitation interventions on QoL and SE. Methods: Using methodology of systematic review we retrieved 26 studies which met the inclusion criteria. Original trials included 4390 participants. Studies which provided information about the associations between QoL and SE (n = 9) were included into meta-analysis and 17 studies reporting on cardiac rehabilitation interventions were systematically reviewed. Findings: Results of meta-analysis indicated significant moderate association between QoL and SE. 29% out of 17 interventions referred to cardiac rehabilitation and education, 24% to self-efficacy for exercise, and 47% to self-management for self-care. In 9 trials significant improvement for QoL and SE was found, whereas in 8 trials the effect occurred only for either SE or QOL indicators. Discussion: Enhancing SE may improve QoL among cardiac patients. Cardiac interventions directed at improving SE for exercise and self-management for self-care were effective at increasing either QoL or SE.