Effects of an exercise program during pediatric stem cell transplantation: A randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Hematology/Oncology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Clinical Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) is associated with reduced physical activity, leading to decreased strength, function, and quality of life (QoL).
• Maintaining physical function and QoL is crucial for recovery and long-term outcomes in pediatric HSCT survivors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a supervised exercise program on functional ability, mobility, strength, and QoL in pediatric HSCT patients.
• To determine if exercise interventions can mitigate the negative effects of HSCT on physical function and QoL.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving pediatric patients (ages 4-21) undergoing HSCT.
• The intervention group received supervised exercise three times weekly during HSCT and once weekly for 6 weeks post-discharge; the control group received standard care.
• Assessments of physical therapy and QoL were conducted at baseline, hospital discharge, and 6 weeks post-discharge.

Main Results:

• The exercise group showed significant improvements in exercise capacity (Six-Minute Walk test, p=.023) and muscle strength (manual muscle testing, p=.005) compared to the control group.
• Improvements in QoL outcomes, including reduced anxiety (p=.0009) and fatigue (p=.037), were observed 6 weeks post-discharge.

Conclusions:

• A supervised exercise program positively impacts endurance, functional mobility, and muscle strength in pediatric HSCT patients.
• Exercise interventions may also enhance certain aspects of QoL, including reducing anxiety and fatigue, during the recovery period following HSCT.