Using virtual reality to help reduce food-related anxiety in anorexia nervosa
Virtual Food for Real Thought: a Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial of Virtual Reality Exposure in Anorexia Nervosa
This study is testing if using virtual reality to expose people with anorexia nervosa to food can help reduce their anxiety around eating while they receive treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 14 Years and up |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | University of Padova Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Padova, Italy) |
| Trial ID | NCT06795555 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot study evaluates the feasibility and clinical impact of using virtual reality (VR) exposure to food stimuli in patients with anorexia nervosa who are receiving intensive daycare treatment. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: VR food exposure, VR nature exposure, or treatment as usual (TAU) alone. The VR food exposure involves daily sessions in a kitchen environment designed to help patients confront their food-related anxieties. The study aims to assess whether repeated VR exposure can effectively reduce anxiety and avoidance behaviors associated with food.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 14 and older with a current diagnosis of anorexia nervosa.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological disorders, psychosis, substance abuse disorders, or those who cannot tolerate VR exposure may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce food-related anxiety in patients with anorexia nervosa, improving their treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using virtual reality for exposure therapy in various psychiatric disorders, suggesting potential success for this novel application.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * current diagnosis of anorexia nervosa according to DSM-5 criteria * 14 years or older. Exclusion Criteria: * diagnosis of neurological disorders * diagnosis of psychosis or substance abuse disorders * visual/hearing impairments not corrected by glasses/ear implants * non-tolerance of exposure to VR (i.e., cybersickness, dizziness)
Where this trial is running
Padova, Italy
- University Hospital of Padova — Padova, Italy, Italy (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Valentina Cardi, PhD
- Email: valentina.cardi@unipd.it
- Phone: +39 3713759534
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.