Virtual Reality in Cancer Care: Enhancing Knowledge and Reducing Anxiety about Chemotherapy among Patients and Caregivers

Melissa K. Thomas (), Abolfazl (Abel) Jarrahi, Lauren Dennie, Sam Scott, Ted Lau and Annika Johnson
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Melissa K. Thomas: Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45071, USA
Abolfazl (Abel) Jarrahi: VR Medical Solutions, Athens, OH 45701, USA
Lauren Dennie: Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45071, USA
Sam Scott: College of Arts and Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, USA
Ted Lau: Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45071, USA
Annika Johnson: Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45071, USA

IJERPH, 2024, vol. 21, issue 9, 1-22

Abstract: Virtual reality (VR) technology has evolved from entertainment to significant applications in healthcare and education. Despite its potential, there is limited research on the role of VR in cancer care. This study investigates VR’s ability to simulate the chemotherapy process, aiming to enhance patients’ knowledge and mitigate anxiety associated with chemotherapy. Utilizing a two-arm, mixed-methods pre/post-survey design, the study measured changes in patients’ anxiety and knowledge before and after exposure to a VR simulation. Participants ( n = 267) engaged with VR simulations or interactive 360-degree videos depicting the chemotherapy process. Data analyses revealed a significant median increase in chemotherapy knowledge post-exposure to the VR content (z = 12.511, p < 0.001). Demographic factSors significantly influenced perceptions of VR realism and usefulness ( p < 0.05). Additionally, VR exposure was correlated with reduced anxiety levels and improved treatment expectations ( p < 0.05). Participants with higher post-understanding chemotherapy scores considered VR a useful tool for managing anxiety about chemotherapy and recommended VR for other medical procedures ( p < 0.001). These findings underscore VR technology’s potential as a valuable tool in cancer treatment, suggesting it can enhance patient education and reduce anxiety, thereby improving patient outcomes during cancer therapy.

Keywords: virtual reality (VR); chemotherapy; cancer care; patient education; anxiety reduction; immersive technology; VR simulation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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