Exercise program to improve movement and mobility in young cancer patients undergoing stem cell transplant

TEAM Me (Totally Excited About Moving, Mobility, and Exercise) Clinical Research Protocol

NA · M.D. Anderson Cancer Center · NCT04678427

This study is testing a special exercise program to see if it can help young cancer patients who are getting stem cell transplants move better and feel healthier.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages6 Years to 29 Years
SexAll
SponsorM.D. Anderson Cancer Center (other)
Locations2 sites (Dallas, Texas and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04678427 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of the TEAM Me exercise program, which uses a token economy system to encourage physical activity among pediatric and young adult patients with cancer undergoing blood stem cell transplants. The program aims to improve physical fitness, activity levels, and overall quality of life through structured exercise and behavioral reinforcement. Participants will undergo various assessments, including walking tests and surveys, to measure their progress and experiences throughout the intervention. The study focuses on both feasibility and impact, ensuring that tailored goals are set for those unable to participate in standard activities.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are pediatric and young adult patients aged 6 to 30 who are hospitalized for hematopoietic stem cell transplant due to malignancy.

Not a fit: Patients with clinical conditions that prevent participation in physical activity, such as severe respiratory issues or active bleeding, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could enhance physical fitness and quality of life for young cancer patients during a critical treatment period.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes with exercise interventions in similar patient populations, indicating potential for success with this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Be admitted to an inpatient pediatric ward for the purpose of HSCT for the treatment of malignancy
* Be greater than or equal to 6 years of age and less than 30 years of age
* Participants or guardians are willing and able to give written informed consent either prior to admission or within 48 hours following admission and to comply with all of the study activities and procedures
* Participants or guardians are willing and able to give written informed consent for protocol PA18-0130 (Pediatric Energy balance data repository protocol), companion protocol for the Fitbit application/assessment

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients whose clinical status precludes them from participating in any physical activity including but not limited to: declining respiratory status, hypoxia requiring high flow nasal cannula (Vapotherm), hypotension, and active bleeding.
* At MD Anderson HSCT patients admitted to adult units for their transplant will not be eligible as TEAM Me is an established program on the G9 Pediatrics Unit only

Where this trial is running

Dallas, Texas and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Hematopoietic and Lymphoid Cell Neoplasm, Malignant Solid Neoplasm

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.