Fitness Program for Adolescent and Young Adult Childhood Cancer Survivors: The StepByStep Study – Phase III

Protocol Description

This Children’s Oncology Group study compares two programs designed to motivate teen and young adult cancer survivors to be physically active to improve energy levels and overall health. Both programs require the use of activity trackers, but one includes individualized goal setting and online social media peer group support. The program addresses the fact that some adolescents and young adults who have completed cancer therapy are at risk for gaining weight, feeling tired and becoming less physically fit. Long-term side effects of drugs used for cancer treatment can contribute to these risks.

Study Level: III

Eligibility Criteria

Subject to certain exclusion criteria, this study is enrolling people ages 15 to 20, who completed therapy for childhood cancer and whose first diagnosis of malignant neoplasm remains in continuous remission at the time of enrollment.
Males and Females: Ages 15 to 20 years

Requirements

At the initial baseline visit, all participants will be given a physical activity tracking device to wear during the study and will receive a physical examination including body measurements and other tests. Participants will be randomly assigned to a group. One group will wear the activity trackers with a recommendation to be physically active, and the other will receive weekly guidance for goal setting by the study team and will participate on a staff-moderated Instagram account that provides recognition for achieving goals. Tracker activity will be monitored by researchers, and participants will return for physical examinations 6 and 12 months after the initial baseline visit.
Visits: 3, which can be done at the same time as regular clinic visits
Duration: About a year for most participants

Status: Open to Enrollment

Source(s) of Support

Children’s Oncology Group (ALTE2031)
National Cancer Institute

Additional Information

Study Description at the National Institutes of Health
Cancer and Blood Disorder Research 

Primary Investigator

Jean M. Tersak, MD

Contact Information

For more information about the study or enrollment, please contact the UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Hematology-Oncology research team, at: HOCHPPhaseIII@upmc.edu.