Using virtual reality to improve the quality of life for cancer patients

Impact of Virtual Reality on the Quality of Life of Oncology Patients

Not applicable Interventional Central Hospital Saint Quentin · NCT06485869

This study is testing if using virtual reality can help cancer patients feel less anxious and sick during their first round of chemotherapy compared to standard care.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorCentral Hospital Saint Quentin Government
Drugs / interventionsChemotherapy
Locations2 sites (Chauny and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06485869 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of immersive virtual reality (VR) in managing anxiety, nausea, and vomiting in cancer patients undergoing their first line of chemotherapy. It employs a controlled, randomized approach with two groups: one receiving VR support during treatment and the other receiving standard care. The study aims to measure improvements in quality of life, patient and nursing staff satisfaction, and the overall impact of VR on symptoms associated with chemotherapy. Participants will be assessed during their chemotherapy sessions and followed up for several months post-treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are chemotherapy-naive patients receiving their first line of intravenous cyclic chemotherapy who can understand French or English.

Not a fit: Patients with severe claustrophobia, psychiatric disorders, or significant communication barriers may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the quality of life for cancer patients by reducing distressing symptoms during chemotherapy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that virtual reality can effectively alleviate anxiety and distress in similar patient populations, suggesting a promising avenue for treatment.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Chemotherapy-naive patient
* Patient with first-line indication for intravenous cyclic chemotherapy
* Affiliated to a social security system
* Having received full information on the organization of the research and having given free, informed and written consent signed by the participant and the investigator
* Patient understands French or English
* Expected duration of chemotherapy session for the first 3 cycles greater than 30 minutes

exclusion criteria :

* Patient with communication disorders preventing informed consent
* Patient under legal protection (guardianship, curatorship, safeguard of justice)
* Patients suffering from epilepsy
* Severe visual or hearing impairment preventing use of headphones
* Psychiatric pathologies such as delusional disorders, hallucinations or schizophrenia.
* Patients with infections or facial wounds
* Patients with severe claustrophobia
* Patients with pacemakers
* Patients with known cognitive or learning problems,
* Patients with brain tumors or metastases,
* Patients suffering from motion sickness
* Expected duration of chemotherapy session for the first 3 cycles of 30 minutes or less.

Where this trial is running

Chauny and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.