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A lifestyle program for children with cancer exhibited gains in vigorous activity. 

According to a study published in June 2025 in the issue of BMC Pediatrics, promoting physical activity (PA) and healthy nutrition during childhood cancer treatment is essential for supporting protective health behaviors.  

Researchers conducted a retrospective study to assess the changes in PA and diet quality before and after a family lifestyle intervention during cancer treatment in childhood and to examine associations with participation levels.  

They implemented a multidisciplinary intervention involving exercise, nutrition, and psychosocial support for families of children undergoing cancer treatment [exercise intervention, nutritional, and psychosocial support]. The PA was measured using self-reported total, moderate, and vigorous intensity minutes. Diet quality was evaluated with a dietary quality indicator. Intervention participation was tracked through total and category-specific contact points. Non-parametric tests were applied to assess temporal changes and compare outcomes with an ad hoc comparison group.  

The results showed that among 38 participants, total PA minutes significantly increased after the intervention (P= 0.022, r = 0.27), while diet quality showed no significant change (P= 0.136, r = 0.19) [P= 0.022, r = 0.27; P= 0.136, r = 0.19]. The odds of improvement in vigorous intensity PA were 2.19 times higher (95%CI: 1.13–4.25), and these improvements were linked to participation in the intervention [OR = 2.19, 95%CI: 1.13–4.25].  

Investigators concluded that the intervention led to modest gains in PA and should be refined to reduce participation variability and enhance effectiveness. 

Source: bmcpediatr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12887-025-05727-0