Preliminary study aiming to identify the conditions of implementation of a project integrating physical activity for 10-16 year-old children with cancer in a hospital context

Introduction. Today, it is considered that, in children with serious illnesses such as cancer, physical activity during treatment has beneficial effects (physical and mental well-being, self-confidence and self-esteem ...)(INSERM, 2008). However, it is important to notice that physical activity has to be appropriate according to the circumstances (Herbinet, 2002). If some programs begin now to be offered in some hospitals, a lack of resources suitable for children and adolescents appears to be the norm. This study aimed to identify needs and resources for the implementation of a project like this in the department of Hematology Oncology at a hospital in the region of Liege (Wallonia, Belgium). Methods. In this perspective, we interviewed various members of the medical and paramedical staff (n = 20), young patients (n = 8) and their parents (n = 5). This triangulation process aimed to guarantee the validity of the data. The semi-structured interviews were focused on the representations of these subjects about physical activity at the hospital in young people with cancer (definition of physical activity, opportunities and habits of the young patients to exercise, benefits and risks of being active) as well as about their opinions about the characteristics of the actions to implement (type of activities, recommendations, needed resources and conditions). Respecting the principles of the qualitative research, a content analysis of the answers has been conducted. Results. Most of the subjects supported this type of project. Five categories of activities have been identified (adapted ball games, soft gymnastics, group fitness classes, relaxation activities, outdoor activities). A daily medical monitoring has been emphasized while precautionary measures have been listed, as well as the resources of the human, material, organizational and financial aspects that would be needed