Mentor Name: Lisa Schwartz

While there is growing evidence of the considerable benefits of physical activity (PA) on health, survival, and quality of life outcomes in adults with cancer, there is less evidence examining the predictors and benefits of PA engagement in pediatric oncology, especially among adolescents and young adults (AYA). In response, we sought and received funding to better understand PA in pediatric oncology via studies that aim to quantify PA engagement using accelerometers among AYA impacted by cancer, to examine the biopsychosocial predictors of PA engagement, and to explore the impact of PA on various health and treatment outcomes. These studies will serve as training opportunities for Kethan Shirodkar, applicant for ALSF POST funding for summer of 2025. Kethan will partner with mentor Dr. Schwartz, with additional mentorship from Dr. King-Dowling (exercise scientist and senior research scientist) to support this research. Kethan will work to understand patterns, predictors, and outcomes of PA among AYA impacted by cancer. Specifically, Kethan will: 1) conduct a relevant literature search on the predictors of and impact of PA behaviors among AYA with cancer, 2) assist with recruitment (contacting AYA and caregivers in clinic or by phone and study visit scheduling), 3) assist with data entry in REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture) for executive functioning outcomes, 4) conduct electronic health record reviews to gather relevant patient history and cancer treatment information, 5) assist with cleaning and analyzing accelerometer data, and 6) summarize results for presentation. The goal will be for Kethan to submit an abstract to a conference (possibly SIOP, ASCO, SBM) on an aspect of this data and assist with any relevant papers. Kethan will specifically learn how to quantify accelerometer metrics and relate them to social determinants of health as well as other important biopsychosocial predictors (e.g. parental support, self-confidence) that may be important intervention targets. Through these experiences, Kethan will gain invaluable experience with pediatric exercise oncology, clinical research, and various research methods and statistical analysis.