Testing physical function in children undergoing intense cancer treatment-a RESPECT feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Oncology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Physical function decline in pediatric cancer patients impacts quality of life and increases chronic disease risk.
• Multimodal rehabilitation strategies are being explored to mitigate these effects.
• This study investigates the feasibility and challenges of assessing physical function in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the feasibility and obstacles of physical function testing in children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer.
• To evaluate the efficacy of multimodal rehabilitation strategies initiated at diagnosis.
• To identify factors influencing test completion rates.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 75 pediatric cancer patients (aged 6-18) underwent physical function testing at diagnosis and 3 months.
• Tests included timed-up-and-go, sit-to-stand, balance, handgrip strength, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET).
• Data were analyzed to determine completion rates and identify obstacles.

Main Results:

• 92% of children completed at least one physical function test.
• Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) had low completion (25%), while handgrip strength was high (81%).
• Obstacles included tumor location, side effects, and chemotherapy proximity; leukemia patients showed significant lower extremity function decline.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric cancer patients are motivated to participate in physical function testing.
• Diagnosis-specific obstacles and tailored testing methods are needed for future research.
• Further research should focus on optimizing physical function assessment in this group.