Knowledge mobilization in childhood cancer: A scoping review and content analysis

This scoping review aimed to map the literature on knowledge mobilization (KMb), the reciprocal exchange of knowledge and expertise among key partners to bridge research and practice, in the childhood cancer community, identifying key needs, barriers, facilitators, and alignment with the knowledge-to-action (KTA) framework.

A comprehensive search was completed across Medline, Scopus, and ERIC. Data on study characteristics, KMb categories, barriers/facilitators, and KTA approaches were extracted and analyzed.

A total of 2522 unique articles were identified, of which 77 met the inclusion criteria (1988-2024). Most studies were conducted in high-income countries (n = 54, 70.1%), with 5.2% from lower-middle-income countries (n = 4) and none from low-income countries. Collectively, 27,888 professionals and 50,786 patients were included in the studies. Four key categories resurfaced for KMb needs in this community: information and communication; medical management; training and education; and supports. Categories related to barriers and facilitators for effective KMb include information complexity and standardization; technical challenges to KMb; staff resistance and engagement; resource limitations; cultural and social factors; caregivers' and parents' values; and time constraints. While 76.6% of studies (n = 59) proposed KMb interventions, fewer than 20% (n = 14, 18.2%) offered evidence of sustaining knowledge use over time.

The state of the literature indicates that the childhood cancer community faces complex KMb needs and barriers. Future research and innovation should focus on patient and family engagement, address socioeconomic and cultural disparities, and explore how technology can enhance KMb, practice, and policy.