Training breathing muscles in childhood cancer survivors
Understanding the Influence of Diaphragm Structure and Function on the Control of Breathing During Exercise in Childhood Cancer Survivors (2373GCCC)
This study is testing a breathing muscle training program for childhood cancer survivors to see if it helps them breathe better and exercise more easily.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 13 (estimated) |
| Ages | 6 Years to 12 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Maryland, Baltimore Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy, radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Baltimore, Maryland) |
| Trial ID | NCT06205251 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research aims to evaluate the feasibility of an inspiratory muscle training program designed for childhood cancer survivors. Participants will first undergo pulmonary function and muscle performance tests, followed by treadmill walking trials to assess their breathing regulation during exercise. After a 6-week home training program for their breathing muscles, participants will have follow-up assessments to measure any changes in their respiratory function and exercise capacity. The study includes weekly telehealth support to ensure adherence to the training regimen.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are childhood cancer survivors who have completed their medical treatment at least one year ago.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of neuromuscular, cardiac, or pulmonary disease prior to cancer diagnosis may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could improve respiratory function and exercise tolerance in childhood cancer survivors.
How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored, this specific focus on childhood cancer survivors and inspiratory muscle training is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Completed medical treatment (chemotherapy, chemotherapy/surgery, chemotherapy/radiation or any combination of cancer treatment) for any type of cancer, except for cancer of the central nervous system, at least 1 year ago Exclusion Criteria: * History of neuromuscular, cardiac, or pulmonary disease prior to the diagnosis of cancer * Recent injury or condition (less than 6 months ago) that precludes strength testing or walking * Dyspnea with minimal activity (4 on the modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale)
Where this trial is running
Baltimore, Maryland
- University of Maryland, Baltimore — Baltimore, Maryland, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Simon Ho — University of Maryland, Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Martina Miller
- Email: martina.miller@umaryland.edu
- Phone: 410-706-3869
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.