PURPOSE: We studied the effectiveness of a new cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program developed for patients with obesity compared with standard CR on HRQOL and psychosocial well-being. MATERIALS AND METHODS: OPTICARE XL was a multicentre RCT in patients with cardiac disease and obesity (Netherlands Trial Register: NL5589). Patients were randomized to OPTICARE XL CR (n = 102) or standard CR (n = 99). The one-year OPTICARE XL CR group program included endurance and resistance exercises, behavioural coaching, and after-care. Standard CR consisted of a 6- to 12-week endurance exercise group program, and cardiovascular lifestyle education. Primary endpoint was HRQOL (MacNew) at six months post CR. Second, we assessed anxiety and depression (both HADS), fatigue (FSS), and participation in society (USER-P). RESULTS: In both groups, improvements in HRQOL were observed six months post CR. Mean HRQOL improved from 4.92 to 5.40 in standard CR (mean change (95% CI) 0.48 (0.28 to 0.67)) and from 4.96 to 5.45 in OPTICARE XL CR (mean change (95% CI) 0.49 (0.29 to 0.70), without between-group differences. Psychosocial well-being improvements within both groups were obtained at six months post CR, regardless of allocated program. CONCLUSIONS: OPTICARE XL CR did not have added value in improving HRQOL and psychosocial well-being in patients with obesity.

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