Peer-support interventions and related outcomes in patients with myocardial infarction: A systematic review

Abstract

Objective: Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the main causes of disability and death worldwide. Peer-support can ameliorate the psychological and physical morbidities associated with heart diseases. The aim of this study was to determine whether peer-support interventions could improve the psychological and behavioral health outcomes commonly experienced by MI patients. Methods: In this systematic review, international databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) were searched to gather related publications up to March 2023. Eligible papers were those addressing the outcomes of peer-support interventions in individuals with a history of MI. Result: Twelve clinical trials published in English with a Jadad score of 3 or 4 (out of 5) were included in the final review. These studies used four approaches to deliver peer-support interventions: face-to-face, telephone-based, educational videos, and group discussion. The results showed that peer-support could have a positive effect on depression, anxiety, quality of life, sexual performance, self-care, and medication adherence. Conclusion: Considering the serious impacts of MI on life, these patients need empowerment training. Peer-support can be used as a complementary supportive method to reduce MI patients’ psychological complications and improve their behavioral outcomes.