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Does nutrition and exercise help children with cancer?

Can nutrition and exercise improve survival rates and quality of life in children with cancer? In the FITco study, the Tissing group is joining forces with Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and the World Cancer Research Fund (WKOF) will conduct unique research.

Around 600 children in the Netherlands are diagnosed with cancer every year. Despite improved treatment outcomes, side effects such as weight loss, loss of appetite and nutritional deficiencies remain a major problem. The FITco study investigates how nutrition, exercise and body composition affect treatment outcomes and quality of life.

About the FITco Study

The FITco Study is the first study of its kind in the Netherlands. 500 children will be followed from diagnosis to two years after diagnosis. Led by Prof. Dr. Wim Tissing, pediatric oncologist and research group leader and Dr. Dieuwertje Kok of Wageningen University & Research, we aim to better understand how nutrition and exercise can support recovery. The design is unique and may have a global impact.

Lifestyle factors

There is a great need for knowledge about nutrition and exercise in childhood cancer. Until now, there has been little research in this area. Wim Tissing, says: ‘By following children over a long period of time, we want to find out which lifestyle factors contribute to better treatment outcomes and recovery. What we learn from the FITco study may set new standards for supportive care. Our goal is fewer side effects, better outcomes and optimal quality of life for children with cancer.’ This research is expected to take about four years. Funding, nearly 1 million euros, comes from the WKOF.