Study on Adapted Physical Activity Programs for Children Aged 5 to 18 With Cancer to Improve Insulin Sensitivity and Overall Health

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying children aged 5 to 18 years who have solid cancer or blood-related cancers to understand how intense physical activities or stretching affect insulin sensitivity and other metabolic, motor, and nutritional factors. The study aims to observe whether intense physical activity improves these health measures compared to a stretching program. Children are included at the start of their cancer treatment, with a focus on their first treatment experience and a life expectancy exceeding six months. The study involves two different physical activity programs lasting six months one intense adapted physical activity combining aerobics and muscle strengthening, and another stretching program. Children participate in sessions two to three times a week, either during hospital stays or via videoconference at home. The intense activity sessions last 30 minutes for younger children and 60 minutes for older children. Evaluations occur at the beginning, at three and six months during the program, and follow-ups are done six and eighteen months after the programs end. Participants will undergo metabolic, motor, and nutritional assessments at scheduled time points throughout the study and after completion. The research team will monitor insulin sensitivity as the main outcome. Children receive personalized physical activity sessions adapted to their abilities and preferences. The overall participation lasts up to about two years, including initial treatment and follow-up evaluations to track the long-term effects of the physical activity programs.

Adapted Physical Activity for Children Treated With Cancer and Insulin Sensitivity