Exercise Intervention for Childhood Cancer Survivors
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if adding exercise to the usual care for young cancer survivors can alleviate pain and enhance overall well-being. Researchers seek to discover whether exercise can reduce pain and the need for pain medication while improving physical and social functioning. The study involves children and teens aged 10 to 17 who completed cancer treatment within the last year and are experiencing ongoing pain. Participants will receive either regular care with added exercise (physical activity intervention) or just regular care. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for participants to contribute to understanding how exercise can improve life after cancer treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, the study aims to decrease the need for pain medications, so it's possible that changes to your medication might be discussed during the trial.
What prior data suggests that this exercise intervention is safe for childhood cancer survivors?
Research has shown that exercise programs for children who have survived cancer are generally safe and manageable. One study found that survivors who participated in supervised exercise sessions continued with the program and found it both safe and helpful. Another study showed that physical activity not only reduces cancer-related fatigue but also improves overall quality of life. These findings suggest that including exercise in post-cancer care is likely beneficial without serious risks. Overall, exercise programs appear safe for young cancer survivors.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the physical activity intervention for childhood cancer survivors because it offers a proactive approach to improving long-term health outcomes, which is different from the usual focus on medical treatments alone. Unlike standard post-cancer care that primarily addresses medical follow-up, this intervention emphasizes the role of exercise in enhancing physical and psychological recovery. By integrating physical activity into the standard care routine, this approach could lead to improved quality of life and reduced risk of secondary health issues, making it a promising addition to post-cancer care strategies.
What evidence suggests that this trial's exercise intervention could be effective for childhood cancer survivors?
Research shows that exercise can greatly benefit children who have survived cancer. In this trial, participants in the physical activity intervention group will engage in regular exercise alongside standard post-cancer treatment care. Studies indicate that being active can reduce fatigue, a common issue after cancer treatment. One study found that children who exercised regularly were more active overall than those who did not. Another study highlighted benefits such as improved heart health, reduced weight gain, and stronger bones. Overall, exercise supports better physical health and can enhance the quality of life for young cancer survivors.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Smita Dandekar, MD
Principal Investigator
Penn State College of Medicine
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for childhood cancer survivors aged 10-17 who are less than a year post-cancer therapy, can attend three visits at Penn State Health Children's Hospital, and have chronic pain. They must be stable after completing all planned cancer treatments and able to use a computer or smartphone.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive a physical activity intervention coupled with standard post-cancer directed treatment care
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in chronic pain levels, medication usage, and functional outcomes
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Physical activity intervention
- Standard post-cancer directed treatment care
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
Four Diamonds Research Fund at Penn State Health Childrens Hospital
Collaborator