Matthew D. Wogksch, Carrie R. Howell, Carmen L. Wilson, Robyn E. Partin, Matthew J. Ehrhardt, Kevin R. Krull, Tara M. Brinkman, Daniel A. Mulrooney, Melissa M. Hudson, Leslie L. Robison, Kirsten K. Ness
Five-year survival rates for those diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) before the age of 20 years exceed 96% in the United States. Many survivors of childhood/adolescent HL experience cancer-or treatment-related adverse health outcomes. These adverse outcomes are associated with lower health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among childhood cancer survivors.
Improving levels of physical fitness may help prevent or remediate poor health conditions experienced by survivors of childhood HL as well as improve HRQoL. In general population, evidence supports the preventative role of physical fitness for chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, and stroke.
Exercise has also been shown to benefit those with chronic disease, such as heart failure and fibromyalgia, as well as having a positive effect on HRQoL. Recent findings have shown a reduction in all-cause mortality in survivors of childhood cancer who exercise 15-18 MET-hours per week.
Findings also indicate a decreased risk of cardiovascular events among survivors who exercise regularly. Positive associations have been reported between HRQoL and fitness levels in childhood cancer survivors. Thus, improving levels of fitness and exercise in childhood survivors is important.
