VR Helps Brain Tumor Patients Overcome “Scanxiety”
A new study has found that virtual reality therapy can help primary brain tumor patients overcome anxiety before brain scans. According to the study, a VR intervention lasting for a month resulted in 60% of the participants reporting improved quality of life. Additionally, 95% of the participants recommended using VR to other patients before their clinical appointments. The VR intervention consisted of 41 scenarios patients could choose from dynamic breathing, guided relaxation, and instant escape. Patients were free to self-administer VR during the one-month duration of the study. Amanda King, Ph.D., said that “virtual reality holds the potential to lessen some of the negative aspects that cancer patients endure, helping them escape and experience positive thoughts that assist them with coping.” The study’s findings suggest that VR therapy could be valuable for helping brain tumor patients manage anxiety before and during brain scans, leading to improved quality of life and better patient outcomes. Learn more about the study, including the specific VR scenarios, results, and implications for future research.
VR Helps Brain Tumor Patients Overcome “Scanxiety” (Burky, FierceHealthCare, 7/24/23)
