Decreasing Chemotherapy Induced Distress Using Immersive Virtual Reality in Patients With Cancer

Launched by CASE COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTER · Jun 4, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying whether using virtual reality (VR) during chemotherapy can help reduce feelings of distress in cancer patients. Distress can include unpleasant feelings like anxiety, depression, and pain. Participants in the trial will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group will use a VR headset during their chemotherapy session, while the other group will engage in standard activities like reading or watching TV. The VR group will be able to choose relaxing backgrounds to help them feel more comfortable during treatment.

To be eligible for this study, participants must be at least 18 years old, have a confirmed diagnosis of cancer, and have experienced a certain level of distress since their diagnosis. They should also be able to understand English or Spanish and be willing to sign a consent form. This trial is currently recruiting participants, and those chosen for the VR group will receive guidance on how to use the headset to enhance their experience during their chemotherapy session.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age ≥ 18 years.
• • Biopsy proven diagnosis of Cancer (any stage or type).
• • Must have a National Comprehensive Cancer Network Distress Thermometer Score ≥ 5 any time since diagnosis.
• • Must have the ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document
• • Followed by a medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, and/or breast surgeon at Cleveland Clinic.
• • Ability to read and write in English or Spanish.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Age \<18 years.
• • No prior history of Cancer.
• • Prior medical history of severe motion sickness.
• • Prior medical history of seizures
• • Pregnancy.
• • Unable or unwilling to participate in the immersive Virtual Reality study at the Maroone Cancer Center