Exercise may boost memory in kids treated for brain cancer

NCT ID NCT02153957

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: National Cancer Institute (NCI) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jul 17, 2026 · Updated 8 times

Summary

This study tested whether a 12-week physical activity program could improve memory and attention in children who had radiation for brain tumors. Thirty-six kids aged 8–17 who finished radiation at least a year ago took part. Half started the program right away, while the other half waited 12 weeks. All kids wore an activity monitor and completed thinking and fitness tests.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: enhanced physical activity program with Zamzee activity monitor
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a simple, drug-free way to help children with brain tumors improve memory and attention after radiation.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase study with only 36 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The intervention is behavioral, so benefits may be modest or hard to sustain long-term.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

brain cancer brain neoplasm Motor Activity

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

BRAIN TUMOR

Contacts and locations

Locations

National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.