Physical Activity Level and Quality of Life of Children Treated for Malignancy, Depending on Their Place of Residence: Poland vs. the Czech Republic: An Observational Study

Simple Summary Physical and cardiorespiratory fitness deficits acquired during childhood often persist throughout adult life. It is crucial to understand the reasons for their development during childhood cancer and to prevent them in the early treatment stages. Children treated for malignancy exhibit a reduced level of physical activity (PA); however, it varies depending on their place of residence. In conducted studies, the values of examined parameters were significantly lower in the group of Polish children treated for cancer compared to Czech children. It was also observed that a lower level of PA affected patients' mental states. Children undergoing cancer treatment who declared sedentary behavior rated their health worse, while children engaging in more frequent PA (lasting at least 60 min daily) felt better mentally, reported higher physical performance, and experienced fewer symptoms of depression. Adequate PA levels have an impact on improving physical fitness, mental well-being, and preventing diseases in civilization.Abstract This study aimed to assess the level of physical activity (PA) and quality of life of cancer-treated children, depending on their place of residence (Poland vs. the Czech Republic, where incidence and mortality rates of childhood malignancies are similar). A total of 68 school-age children (7-18 years) undergoing oncological treatment were included in this study. This study used the quality of life questionnaire (KIDSCREEN-10) and the HBSC questionnaire. This study showed statistically significant differences in the level of PA between Polish and Czech children. In Poland, 93.75% of children exhibited no weekly physical effort at the level of moderate to vigorous PA. In the Czech Republic, 69.44% of children engaged in PA lasting at least 60 min per day, or at least 1 day weekly. Physically active children engaging in more frequent effort, at least 60 min daily, reported higher physical performance (rho = 0.41), higher energy levels (rho = 0.41), and less mood disturbance (rho = -0.31). Children with good relationships with parents were more likely to engage in submaximal PA and spend less time on stationary games. Our study showed that an appropriate level of PA improves well-being and quality of life. It is crucial to promote attractive PA programs tailored for cancer-treated children.

Automated summary

This study aimed to assess the level of physical activity (PA) and quality of life of cancer-treated children, depending on their place of residence (Poland vs. the Czech Republic, where incidence and mortality rates of childhood malignancies are similar). The study showed significant differences in PA levels between Polish and Czech children. Physically active children engaging in more frequent PA reported higher physical performance, higher energy levels, and less mood disturbance. Our study emphasized the importance of promoting tailored PA programs for cancer-treated children to improve well-being and quality of life.