Virtual exercise program to help brain tumor survivors with cognitive issues

Virtually Delivered Home-Based Exercise Intervention on Cognitive Impairment and Gut Microbiome in Adolescent and Young Adult Brain Tumor Survivors: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

NA · Emory University · NCT06799481

This study is testing a virtual exercise program to see if it can help brain tumor survivors improve their thinking skills and get more active.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages15 Years to 39 Years
SexAll
SponsorEmory University (other)
Locations2 sites (Atlanta, Georgia and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06799481 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the RISE intervention, a virtually supervised exercise program designed to improve cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) and physical activity levels in adolescent and young adult brain tumor survivors. Participants will be randomized into two groups: one receiving the RISE intervention, which includes personalized aerobic and strength training, and the other receiving attention control with weekly check-ins. The study also aims to explore the impact of exercise on the gut microbiome diversity and composition. The trial will assess feasibility and measure outcomes related to cognitive function and physical activity over a 12-week period.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adolescents and young adults aged 15-39 who are 6 months to 4 years post cranial radiotherapy for a primary brain tumor and currently engage in less than 150 minutes of physical activity per week.

Not a fit: Patients with secondary malignancies, severe traumatic brain injuries, or major psychotic illnesses may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance cognitive function and overall quality of life for young brain tumor survivors.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with exercise interventions for cognitive function in cancer survivors, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 15-39 years
* With primary brain tumor with cranial radiotherapy
* 6 months to 4 years post cranial radiotherapy
* Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy (FACT)-Cognitive Function score \< 60 based on self-report (used among AYAs with non-neural cancer)
* Able to provide informed consent/assent
* Able to walk and receive clearance from a provider to participate based on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire
* Currently engaging in \< 150 minutes of physical activity per week
* Willing to use smartphone-based applications (app)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Secondary malignancies, germline genetic syndrome, or recurrent disease requiring re-irradiation of the brain
* Moderate to severe traumatic brain injury with brain damage beyond that expected from brain tumor and treatment
* Developmental disorders (e.g., autism) or major psychotic illness (e.g., schizophrenia, depression) to avoid confounding impact related to these disorders

Where this trial is running

Atlanta, Georgia 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: Cancer-related Cognitive Dysfunction, Primary Brain 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.