VR headsets tested as a drug-free mood booster for cancer patients

NCT ID NCT06985784

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: City of Hope Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether using a 3D mindfulness virtual reality headset can improve depression, anxiety, pain, and stress in head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiation or chemoradiation. Forty patients will be randomly assigned to either a 3D VR or a 2D non-immersive experience. The main goal is to see if patients find the VR acceptable and easy to use, not yet to prove it works.

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 (3D mindfulness VR headset vs 2D non-immersive VR)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to help cancer patients manage depression, anxiety, and pain during treatment.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early feasibility study with only 40 participants. It is testing whether patients will use VR, not yet whether it truly improves symptoms. Results may not apply to all patients.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

head and neck cancer head and neck carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

HEAD AND NECK CARCINOMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

City of Hope Medical Center
RECRUITING

Duarte, California, 91010, United States

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