[Effects of a Four-Week Rehabilitation Program on Motor Performance, Quality of Life and Fatigue in Childhood Cancer Patients and Healthy Siblings].

Aim In Germany all childhood cancer patients and their families are offered the opportunity to participate in a four-week, family-oriented, inpatient rehabilitation program in order to facilitate (re-)integration into everyday life. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of this rehabilitation program on motor performance, quality of life (QoL) and fatigue. Methods Motor performance, QoL and fatigue were assessed in 22 childhood cancer patients and 20 healthy siblings at the beginning (t1) and the end (t2) of the four-week rehabilitation program, as well as 6 months later (t3). Results At t1 significant differences between groups were found in motor performance and physical well-being. Improvements in motor performance, QoL and fatigue were found in both groups. Conclusion Different preconditions must be considered. Childhood cancer patients as well as healthy siblings benefit from a family-oriented rehabilitation program.