Pediatrics
Evangeline Attota, BA
Medical Student
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine
Woodbury, New Jersey, United States
Muhammed Z. Mirza, BS
Medical Student
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine
Jersey City, New Jersey, United States
Evangeline V. Attota, BA
Rowan-Virtua School of Medicine
Frederick, Maryland, United States
Articles were collected from multiple databases using prespecified inclusion and exclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria consisted of original research studies (eg, prospective observational studies, randomized controlled trials, clinical trials) published between 2015 and 2025 that enroll pediatric cancer patients (< 21 years) during or after treatment. Goals were to identify articles comparing group-based physical activity with individual or home physical activity among pediatric cancer patients. Exclusion criteria were studies exclusively on adults, non-physical activity interventions, lack of relevant outcome data, case reports, editorials, narrative reviews, literature reviews, systematic reviews, and non-English publications.
Results:
Group-based physical activity programs consistently improved physical fitness, muscle strength, functional mobility, and cardiorespiratory performance compared to individual or home exercise, with significant gains in six-minute walk distance and lower limb strength. Social outcomes, including peer interaction and self-esteem, were enhanced in group settings, with peer-supported interventions showing greater adherence and reintegration benefits. Emotional distress and psychological symptoms were reduced in group-based interventions, though effects on depression and anxiety were variable. Cognitive outcomes showed moderate improvements in standardized performance and patient-reported measures, but data remain limited and heterogeneous. All interventions were feasible and safe, with no significant adverse events reported.
Conclusions:
Group-based physical activity programs provide superior physical, social, and select emotional benefits compared to individual or home exercise in pediatric cancer patients, with emerging evidence for cognitive improvement. These interventions are feasible and safe, but further high-quality studies are needed to clarify long-term and cognitive effects.
