PACE CALL: Weight Loss Study for Childhood Leukemia Survivors

The PACE CALL or Fit4Life study, sponsored by the American Cancer Society , was a 4-year research project aimed at developing and testing the efficacy of a web & cell phone based weight loss program. The purpose of the intervention was to promote weight loss and management and improve physical activity, diet and sedentary behaviors among preadolescent and adolescent youth (7-18) who are survivors of childhood ALL (defined as being off therapy for at least 2 years without disease relapse). Fit4Life was based on and adapted from notable prior successful adolescent weight control interventions, and physical activity and diet behavioral promotion interventions in the preadolescent and adolescent age group. Particular sensitivity to issues experienced by cancer survivors and their families were incorporated into this newly developed intervention based on systematic cancer survivor input and feedback as well as mentor/collaborator input regarding cancer survivor research.

Inclusion criteria

• 7 - 18 years old
• survived childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (defined as being off treatment for at least 2 years)
• greater than or equal to 85th percentile BMI-for-age and gender)
• read and speak English
• have a parent that reads and speaks English or Spanish
• willingness to attend assessments
• access to the Internet

Exclusion criteria

• any comorbidities of obesity that require immediate sub-specialist referral including pseudotumor cerebri, sleep apnea, and obesity hypoventilation syndrome
• any subject with a known disease of the liver, pancreas or small intestine that would adversely effect digestion or absorption of nutrients
• any pulmonary, cardiovascular, orthopedic, or musculoskeletal problem that would limit ability to adhere to moderate-level physical activity recommendations
• have a history of substance abuse or other psychiatric disorder that would impair compliance with the study protocol
• are using any medications which alter body weight
• are currently enrolled in another weight loss program
• in foster care