Multidisciplinary Network ActiveOncoKids guidelines for providing movement and exercise in pediatric oncology:...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pediatric Medicine
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Pediatric cancer patients exhibit low physical activity levels, failing to meet national recommendations.
• Physical inactivity negatively impacts motor development and increases therapy-related adverse effects and long-term sequelae.
• Current exercise promotion lacks nationwide standardization and consistent knowledge dissemination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a guideline for qualified exercise interventions in pediatric cancer care.
• To standardize procedures for exercise promotion alongside regular physiotherapy.
• To prevent physical inactivity in children and adolescents undergoing cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Guideline development followed requirements of the Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Germany.
• Content synthesis based on expert best practice, patient advocacy, and scientific evidence.
• Target audience includes multidisciplinary teams, physiotherapists, hospital decision-makers, and health insurers.

Main Results:

• The guideline comprises 11 distinct recommendations.
• Recommendations 1-4 emphasize the importance of exercise interventions and general framework conditions.
• Recommendations 5-11 detail exercise program design, safety, contraindications, and barrier management.

Conclusions:

• The guideline consolidates existing knowledge and structures for exercise in pediatric oncology.
• It considers the unique needs and rights of pediatric patients, incorporating national and international perspectives.
• Future research should focus on high-quality intervention studies to strengthen the evidence base for guidelines.