Virtual Reality for Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether virtual reality (VR) can improve the well-being of cancer patients during treatment. The VR sessions provide relaxing experiences, such as walking through a forest or swimming with dolphins, to reduce stress and enhance quality of life. The goal is to determine if these experiences can alleviate anxiety, depression, and fatigue. Suitable participants have a history of cancer and are currently receiving treatments like chemotherapy or a bone marrow transplant. As an unphased trial, this study offers patients a unique opportunity to explore innovative methods to enhance their well-being during treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on using virtual reality to help with psychological symptoms for cancer patients.
What prior data suggests that this virtual reality intervention is safe for cancer patients?
Earlier research has shown that virtual reality (VR) can help cancer patients feel better. Studies suggest VR reduces pain, stress, and negative feelings. For instance, one study found that VR lowered negative emotions in breast cancer patients by 5 points. Another study showed VR effectively managed cancer pain.
Regarding safety, VR is generally well-tolerated, with no major reports of problems in these situations. Participants usually wear a headset to experience calming scenes, like peaceful forests or colorful coral reefs. This method is considered safe for improving the mental and emotional health of patients during cancer treatment.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the use of virtual reality (VR) for cancer support because it offers a new way to manage symptoms like anxiety, depression, and fatigue without medication. Unlike traditional treatments that might involve drugs or therapy sessions over weeks, VR provides an immersive experience that can deliver immediate mental health benefits in just a single session. This non-invasive, tech-driven approach could complement existing treatments by enhancing patient comfort and improving their overall treatment experience.
What evidence suggests that this virtual reality intervention is effective for improving psychological symptoms in cancer patients?
Research has shown that virtual reality (VR) can reduce anxiety, pain, and stress in cancer patients. This trial will involve a single VR session to assess its feasibility, tolerability, and effects on anxiety, depression, and fatigue. Studies have found VR activities effective in improving feelings of anxiety, depression, fear, and distress. VR allows patients to explore peaceful places, like quiet forests or colorful coral reefs, which can enhance mood and quality of life. Patients have also found VR helpful for managing emotions. Overall, virtual reality offers a promising way to support the mental well-being of those undergoing cancer treatment.56789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Juan C. Cardenas Rosales, MD
Principal Investigator
Mayo Clinic
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for cancer patients experiencing psychological symptoms like depression and anxiety during treatment. Participants should not have a history of hypersensitivity reactions or adjustment disorders that could interfere with the VR experience.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo a single VR session to assess feasibility, tolerability, and changes in anxiety, depression, and fatigue
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and fatigue
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Virtual Reality Intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Mayo Clinic
Lead Sponsor