Grant: Doctoral: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

Due to tremendous advances in research, there are a growing number of adolescent cancer survivors. However, despite this good prognosis, adolescents face a host of negative side effects, heightening their risk for disability, illness, and reduced quality of life. Beyond these negative effects, cancer- and treatment-related consequences may uniquely hinder adolescents' physical, psychological and social development further impairing quality of life. Physical activity is recognized as a safe, effective and beneficial strategy for improving quality of life in child and adult cancer populations, yet its effectiveness in adolescents remains largely unexplored. It is therefore critical to confirm the role physical activity may play in this population in an effort to reduce the burden of cancer and its treatments. Thus, the purpose of this research project is to explore the role of physical activity in adolescent oncology (13-19 years) and determine the optimal timing of delivering a physical activity intervention (during or following treatment). To do this, 3 studies will be conducted to: (1) summarize existing research on physical activity in adolescent oncology; (2) explore the associations between physical activity and various health outcomes and determine if treatment status (on or off-treatment) affects these associations; (3) test the feasibility, acceptability and optimal timing (during or after treatment) of delivering a physical activity intervention. This program of research will explore the role of physical activity to improve those aspects of quality of life thwarted by cancer during adolescence. Moreover, it will provide the foundation for the design and development of larger studies. Finally, it will provide crucial insight into promoting physical activity and enhancing quality of life in this growing population.