BACPR Research Priorities

Research Priorities

As part of its work within the BHF-CRC, the clinical study group (CSG) established by BACPR developed a protocol in 2019 to identify research priorities within the field of cardiovascular prevention and rehabilitation (CVPR). The BHF-CRC provided funding, and this project concluded in 2021. To view the 2019 project protocol please click here.

The project examined the evidence base for CVPR to identify unanswered research questions. These questions formed the basis for three electronic surveys sent to BACPR members and partners. Analysing these survey responses led to the identification of the top 30 priority questions, and from these, a final list of the top 10 questions were finalised. The full project paper, including the final top 10 priority question list is shared here.

In 2023, the CSG in collaboration with BACPR council members with a research interest, conducted a review of the top 10 priority list considering the latest research evidence. Through a consensus agreement, three priority themes were highlighted, setting the trajectory for future development of CVPR research.

Here, we outline the three priority themes, providing exemplar research questions derived from the research priorities project above, along with suggestions for potential research focus. It is important to note that these examples are not exhaustive or definitive, and researchers are encouraged to explore alternative avenues and expand upon the provided suggestions:

Research themes:

  • Multimorbidity within CVPR

Theme focus: Exploring multimorbidity in the context of CVPR.

Example question: Can cardiac rehabilitation programmes meet the needs of those with multimorbidity?

Suggestions for research focus: Quantitative/qualitative studies aimed at improving patient outcomes and/or CVPR access/attendance/barriers/facilitators/completion. Consider defining multimorbidity.

  • Remote delivery of CVPR

Theme focus: Advancing remote delivery strategies in CVPR.

Example questions:

  1. What is the best way to assess exercise capacity remotely when a face-to-face test is not possible?

  2. What is the effectiveness of remote delivery of psychological support versus computerised CBT for anxiety and depression in patients with CVD?

Suggestions for research focus: Consider a systematic review for question 1 to comprehensively evaluate existing methods on remote delivery. For question 2, consider research examining patient outcomes for CBT, for example, consider cost effectiveness, quality of life, hospital admission etc.

  • Psychosocial peer support within CVPR

Theme focus: Exploring the impact of psychosocial peer support in CVPR.

Example question: What is the role of peer group sessions on normalising and reducing psychological stress in patients with CVD?

Suggestions for research focus: systematic review, survey studies regarding early engagement with CVPR peer support, or qualitative research gaining patient feedback.

BACPR is committed to supporting and engaging with members interested in developing research. If you have any questions, contact BACPR at bacpr@bcs.com.