Quality of Life in Pediatric Patients With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Receiving Maintenance Chemotherapy

Health-related quality of life is an important outcome of cancer treatment which encompasses
physical, psychological, social, and functional well-being. In addition, quality of life
includes one's overall ability to become a productive member of society and achieve personal
fulfillment. Treatment of pediatric cancer is a highly stressful experience which can be
challenging and disruptive to the lives of children and their families. Pediatric oncology
patients receiving chemotherapy often experience a decline in quality of life due to
decreased activity, fatigue, and psychological distress such as depression or anxiety when
compared to healthy individuals. Preliminary data suggests that there is an association
between physical activity and quality of life. Exercise has been show to improve mood,
increase energy levels, and reduce stress. Although more research and clinical resources have
been given to the effects of exercise on quality of life among adult cancer patients, there
is a lack of research in these areas among children with cancer. The investigators know
little about whether children with cancer would benefit from exercise.

The investigators have added a blood sample for biomarkers. Research in adult cancer patients
have shown an association between different biomarkers and sleep quality which suggests that
regulation of certain biomarkers may be affected through exercise in adults. Measures of
biomarkers may provide insight into potential mediators between PA, sleep quality, or fatigue
levels.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Pediatric oncology patients with ALL in the maintenance phase of chemotherapy during
the time of study

- Ages 8-18 years of either gender (age limits due to reliability and validity of
outcome assessment surveys)

- Have no documented or observable psychiatric or neurological disorders that would
interfere with study participation

- Capable of speaking and reading English

- Having no contraindications to participate in moderate physical exercise as determined
by the research staff and the patient's pediatric oncologist

- Currently living with their parents/legal guardians

- Consent obtained from legal guardians and assent obtained from patients to participate
in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

- Not a pediatric oncology patient with ALL in maintenance

- Not receiving chemotherapy during the time of study

- Age less than 8 years or greater than 18 years

- Not English-speaking Since not all outcome measures have been validated in Spanish and
other languages, only English-speaking patients will be included.