Sex differences in the change in cardiorespiratory fitness and quality of life following exercise training in adults with atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) often have poor cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), quality of life (QoL) and mental health. Improving CRF through exercise training is an important AF management target associated with lower hospitalization and mortality rates. Emerging research indicates smaller CRF increases in females than males following exercise training. Yet, this has not been examined in those with AF. The primary aim was to compare changes in CRF (estimated or directly measured as peak oxygen consumption [VO2peak, mL O2/kg/min]) following exercise training between females and males with AF. We hypothesized that females would experience smaller CRF improvements. Secondary aims compared changes in functional capacity (6-minute walk test [6MWT] distance), QoL (SF-36), anthropometric and hemodynamic measures, and anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale).