Virtual Reality Education Module in Reducing Anxiety and Increasing Knowledge in Patients With Prostate Cancer Undergoing Radiation Therapy

A Pilot Study to Determine if the Use of a Virtual Reality Education Module Reduces Anxiety and Increases Comprehension in Patients Receiving Radiation Therapy

This pilot clinical trial studies a virtual reality education module in reducing anxiety and increasing knowledge in patients with prostate cancer undergoing radiation therapy. A virtual reality education module may be useful in helping patients understand what they can expect to happen during their radiation treatments and help reduce stress relating to the radiation treatments.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVES:

I. To determine if a virtual reality education module for prostate cancer patients is effective in increasing patient comprehension and decreasing patient anxiety related to radiation treatments.

SECONDARY OBJECTIVES:

I. This pilot study could have implications for a broader patient base undergoing radiation therapy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• English speaking males capable of giving informed consent
• Must be able to read English language
• Receiving pre-treatment cone beam and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for prostate cancer on the "A" or "B" treatment machines at the Bodine Center
• Must be able to walk two city blocks
• Must not have any auditory or visual deficits

Exclusion Criteria:

• If inclusion criteria are not met
• Previous radiation therapy treatment
• Employment in radiation oncology