QOL-55. HOME PHYSICAL ACTIVITY INTERVENTION TO IMPROVE COGNITIVE LATE EFFECTS IN CHILDREN TREATED WITH RADIATION FOR BRAIN TUMORS: DESCRIPTIVE FEASIBILITY DATA FROM A PILOT RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL (RCT)

Cranial radiation therapy (CRT) contributes to cognitive late effects that require rehabilitative interventions. Physical activity (PA) targets CRT-damaged brain mechanisms and cognitive functions. We conducted a pilot RCT to evaluate the feasibility of an innovative home PA intervention program for children treated with CRT for brain tumors. Eligible children 8-17 years, >two years post-CRT, with cognitive late effects were randomized to the Intervention Group (IG), which followed a 12-week home program to increase PA then maintained PA for 12 weeks, or the Control Group (CG), which monitored usual PA for 12 weeks followed by the 12-week program. Psychologists taught Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) techniques to facilitate PA engagement. Participants used Zamzee accelerometers/website to track moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA). Evaluations included plasma/serum circulating growth factors, cardiovascular fitness, cognitive function pre/post the first 12 weeks, and child/parent feasibility questionnaires (1-5 ratings, categories, open-ended questions). Six children (mean age=13.8 years, 10-17; IG=3; CG=3) enrolled and completed the study. Participants enjoyed the activity tracker (mean=3.8) and wore it 3-4 times/week to daily, but it broke easily; most liked the website’s activity graphs, rewards, and challenges (mean=3.3; uploaded data/viewed