Cardiac Rehabilitation and Risk Factors for Cardiorenal Syndrome

Background: Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) arises from interconnected cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic dysfunction driven by shared risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a multidisciplinary intervention; however, its impact on CRS risks remains unclear. Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed electronic medical record data from 394 participants enrolled in a three-month CR program. Baseline and post-program measures included functional capacity, cardiometabolic risk factors, and psychosocial outcomes. Results: Participants (mean age 62.44 ± 12.15 years; 66.8% male) had a high burden of CRS risk factors, including hypertension (85.8%), diabetes (60.6%), and obesity (57.8%). Significant improvements were observed in functional capacity (6 min walk distance increased by 213 m, p < 0.001), muscular strength, flexibility, and psychosocial outcomes (anxiety, depression, perceived health; all p < 0.001). In contrast, changes in CRS risk factors were modest: fasting blood glucose decreased slightly (p = 0.043), while HbA1c, body fat, and cholesterol showed no significant change. Systolic blood pressure and body weight increased significantly. Cardiac rehabilitation improves functional and psychosocial outcomes but demonstrates limited short-term impact on CRS risk factors. Conclusions: These findings suggest CR may serve as an initial platform for CRS risk modification but requires integration with comprehensive cardio–renal–metabolic management strategies.