Exercise training improves vascular function and secondary health measures in survivors of pediatric oncology related cerebral insult

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201449
• Publication Date: 2018-08-09T17:57:50Z
• Authors: Treya M. Long; Shoshana R. Rath; Karen E. Wallman; Erin K. Howie; Leon M. Straker; Andrew Bullock; Thomas S. Walwyn; Nicholas G. Gottardo; Catherine H. Cole; Catherine S. Choong; Louise H. Naylor
• Keywords: Insult; Pediatric Oncology

Adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors of pediatric oncology related cerebral insult are vulnerable to numerous treatment-induced deficits that significantly enhance cardiovascular disease risk. Regular exercise improves endothelial function, fitness, body composition musculoskeletal function which may reduce predisposition for disease. Here we assessed the feasibility effectiveness a 24-week intervention on cardiovascular, physical metabolic outcomes in this population. Thirteen (6 male, 7 female; median age 19 y (range 16–23 y) were recruited participate 48-week study consisting control period (regular care) followed by intervention. Outcome measures collected at entry (week 0) following regular care (24-week) (48-week). Assessed variables included (flow mediated dilation, FMD), blood pressure, heart rate (HR), aerobic capacity, anthropometry, composition, muscular strength (3 repetition maximum testing), endurance (repetitions/min) activity levels (accelerometry). Compared baseline, delta diameter (p = 0.008) FMD 0.029) brachial artery increased exercise. Bicep-curl also compared baseline 0.019), while submaximal min mark) ventilation 0.012), rating perceived exertion HR 0.001), absolute 0.000) relative capacity decreased. Breaks sedentary time 0.043) care. Although sample was small heterogeneous, demonstrates is achievable has positive effects vascular local population AYA insult.