Can a VR headset help cancer patients feel better?

NCT ID NCT07221409

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Mayo Clinic Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This pilot study at Mayo Clinic is testing whether a single 20-30 minute virtual reality session can safely reduce anxiety, depression, and fatigue in cancer patients. 24 adults undergoing chemotherapy or bone marrow transplant will try calming VR experiences like nature walks or meditation. Researchers will check if the VR is easy to use and if it improves mood.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Virtual Reality (VR) experience
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to help cancer patients feel less anxious or depressed during treatment.
What could go wrong: This is a very small pilot study with only 24 people and no control group. The VR session is just one time, so any benefits may be short-lived or not apply to everyone.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

adjustment disorder anxiety disorder cancer Depression depressive disorder hematopoietic and lymphoid system neoplasm neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ADJUSTMENT DISORDER ANXIETY DISORDER CANCER DEPRESSION HEMATOPOIETIC AND LYMPHOID SYSTEM NEOPLASM MALIGNANT SOLID NEOPLASM

Contacts and locations

Locations

Mayo Clinic in Florida
RECRUITING

Jacksonville, Florida, 32224-9980, United States

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