Effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) in reducing distress in children and adolescents with cancer: A systematic review
Abstract
Introduction: Although many studies have been published that have attempted to demonstrate the efficacy of different psychological treatments in cancer patients, to date there has been no review of the available evidence on the efficacy of Virtual Reality (VR) in reducing distress in children and adolescents with cancer. Objective: The main aim is to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality intervention in reducing the distress suffered by children and adolescents with cancer in the face of medical procedures, hospitalization, or the disease itself. Results: Of the 22 articles found, a total of 8 were selected for the review, which followed an experimental or quasi-experimental design in children and young people diagnosed with cancer treated with VR. Conclusions: The results, although heterogeneous, suggest medium to long-term improvements in the variables of anxiety, depression, acceptance, quality of life, distress, and psychological flexibility. Moreover, VR has proved to be more effective than other techniques. Thus, despite the limitations found in this study, promising results have been obtained for future reviews and/or meta-analysis.
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