Body mass index-related participation limitations in daily life activities among survivors of childhood cancer: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES

This study compared participation limitations in daily life activities among childhood cancer survivors across different Body Mass Index (BMI) categories.

DESIGN

Prospective cross-sectional study.

SETTING

The study data were collected from two separate oncology outpatient clinics.

PARTICIPANTS

116 children with cancer aged 10.07±3.83 were included in the study. The mean follow-up time after cancer treatment turnover was 36.28±6.43 months.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Participation levels were assessed using the Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument (PODCI) as the primary outcome of this study, and they were categorised by BMI.

RESULTS

The mean z score was 0.64 ± 1.12, and the average BMI was 17.76±3.56. The PODCI global functioning score averaged 80.25±15.23. There were no significant associations between the global functioning score and age, chemotherapy, or surgery (p>0.05). However, significant relationships were found between the global functioning score and gender, BMI, and radiotherapy (p<0.05). Significant functional differences were observed in the upper extremity, basic mobility transfer, happiness and overall functioning (p<0.05). No significant differences were noted in sports and physical functioning or pain/comfort across different BMI categories (underweight, normal/healthy, overweight) (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Survivors experience participation restrictions in daily living activities after completing treatment. Systematic evaluation of feedback received from patients/parents regarding physical function, sports, transfer and participation highlights the importance of BMI in childhood cancer survivors. Addressing these factors is key to achieving better health-related quality of life in functionality and participatory outcomes for survivors.