Exercise Intervention in Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors

One-on-one Exercise Program in Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors With a Certified Clinical Cancer Exercise Specialist

Adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors of cancer face a future of persistent medical issues across a wide spectrum of diseases One study examining health data from this cohort (ages 15-29) reported significantly higher rates of smoking, obesity, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, asthma, and poorer mental health among the cancer survivors when compared to healthy controls. Prescribed exercise has broad and far-reaching beneficial physiological effects that cut across multiple body systems and consistently improves emotional well-being, decreases fatigue and depression, and enhances quality of life. Although a growing body of evidence consistently demonstrates the physiological and psychological benefits of exercise interventions in adults with cancer, there are no studies examining the effects of individualized, prescribed, supervised exercise in pediatric, adolescent and young adult cancer survivors.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age ≥ 15 and ≤ 39 years,
2. History of cancer
3. At least three months off of cytotoxic chemotherapy (note: hormone therapy is permitted)

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Evidence of significant liver dysfunction, congestive heart failure, cardiovascular disease
2. History of CNS tumor
3. Down's Syndrome
4. Unable to perform aerobic and/or strength exercises with full range of motion (limb immobilization, limb amputation, or surgical complications.
5. Neurological disorder
6. Baseline exercise of 30 minutes per day three times a week already being performed.