Yoga helps heart failure patients live better, says all-India study

A large study conducted across India has revealed that practicing yoga can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals suffering from heart failure, even though it does not reduce the number of deaths or hospitalizations. This research, funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and conducted in collaboration with institutions from the UK and US, was presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions.

The findings are particularly significant as India lacks specialized cardiac rehabilitation centers, making yoga a more affordable and accessible alternative for managing heart failure. The study involved nearly 3,500 heart failure patients from 16 centers, all of whom had a reduced ejection fraction, indicating their hearts' reduced ability to pump blood efficiently.

Half of the participants engaged in a structured yoga program, while the others received enhanced standard care, including health education and advice. After three months, those participating in yoga showed significant improvements in their quality of life and physical functioning. Although the yoga intervention did not significantly reduce the risk of death or hospitalization, it resulted in a 25.5-meter increase in the six-minute walk test distance compared to the control group.

This improvement reflects the patients' ability to engage in more physical activities, moving from an average of 200 meters to 225 meters. The study underscores the importance of accessible and cost-effective cardiac rehabilitation options, especially in India where cardiac rehabilitation facilities are scarce.