Effects of Pulmonary Rehabilitation on Quality of Life and Health in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Patients

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a major global health concern, affecting approximately 1% of the world's population. With global aging and increased life expectancy, its incidence continues to rise. PH is a progressive and disabling disease, with studies showing its progression correlates with worsening symptoms and increased mortality. Even with targeted medications, the prognosis remains poor across PH subtypes, with PAH patients showing only a 49% 7-year survival rate. The 2022 ESC/ERS guidelines emphasize that PH management requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach. Beyond pharmacological and surgical treatments, rehabilitation has demonstrated benefits in improving exercise capacity, quality of life, functional class, and peak oxygen consumption. However, research on specific and effective comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation programs remains lacking.