Nutrition and physical activity interventions delivered to children and young people during cancer treatment: a systematic literature review.
Support Care CancerSep 16, 2026 (epub)
Alexis S Ross, Émilie Bertrand, Marta Seretny et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review evaluated nutrition and physical activity interventions during cancer treatment in children and young people. Among 77 eligible studies, evidence consistently showed that physical activity interventions improved exercise capacity and strength, while nutrition interventions enhanced diet quality. Due to significant heterogeneity, a meta-analysis was not performed.
Key findings
- Physical activity interventions improved exercise capacity and strength in pediatric cancer patients.
- Benefits to physical function from physical activity interventions were inconsistent.
- Nutrition interventions showed potential to improve diet quality.
- Effective physical activity interventions were typically supervised and of moderate intensity.
Why it matters
Understanding the impact of nutrition and physical activity during cancer treatment is crucial for optimizing care in pediatric patients. Improved exercise capacity and diet quality can enhance overall treatment outcomes and quality of life.