Expanding horizons in pulmonary hypertension management: A systematic review and meta-analysis of non-pharmacological interventions

Abstract

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a progressive and life-threatening disorder characterized by elevated pulmonary arterial pressure, leading to right heart failure and reduced exercise capacity. Traditional pharmacological and surgical treatments offer limited efficacy and significant side effects, necessitating the exploration of alternative therapeutic options.

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of non-pharmacological interventions, including exercise, dietary modifications, and psychosocial therapies, in the management of pulmonary hypertension.

Methods

Comprehensive searches were conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Scopus up to 2024, identifying randomized controlled trials and observational studies examining non-pharmacological interventions for PH. Primary outcomes assessed included pulmonary arterial pressure, right heart function, exercise capacity, and quality of life, with secondary analysis on safety and adverse effects. Data synthesis was performed using random-effects meta-analysis.

Results

The review included 30 studies, totaling 2000 participants with various forms of PH. Meta-analysis demonstrated significant improvements in exercise capacity as measured by the 6 min walk distance (mean increase of 45 meters, 95 % CI: 30-60, p<0.001), enhanced quality of life scores, and reduction in pulmonary arterial pressure (mean reduction of 5 mmHg, 95 % CI: 3-7, p<0.01). Non-pharmacological therapies also showed a favorable safety profile, with minor adverse effects reported.

Conclusion

Non-pharmacological interventions provide a viable and effective complement to traditional treatments for pulmonary hypertension, significantly improving functional capacity and hemodynamic parameters without severe adverse effects. These findings support the integration of tailored non-pharmacological strategies into the therapeutic regimen for PH patients, emphasizing the need for broader implementation and further research to optimize intervention protocols.