This study investigated the potential of the metaverse in providing psychological support for pediatric and AYA cancer patients, with a focus on those with rare cancers. The research involved ten cancer patients and survivors from four distinct regions in Japan, who participated in metaverse sessions using customizable avatars, facilitating interactions across geographical and temporal barriers. Surveys and qualitative feedback were collected to assess the psychosocial impact of the intervention. The results demonstrated that the metaverse enabled patients to connect with peers, share experiences, and receive emotional support. The anonymity provided by avatars helped reduce appearance-related anxiety and stigma associated with cancer treatment. A case study of a 19-year-old male with spinal Ewing’s sarcoma highlighted the profound emotional relief fostered by metaverse interactions. The findings suggest that integrating virtual spaces into healthcare models can effectively address the unique needs of pediatric and AYA cancer patients, offering a transformative approach to delivering psychosocial support and fostering a global patient community. This innovative intervention has the potential to revolutionize patient care in the digital age.
本研究探讨了元宇宙为儿童及青少年与年轻成人癌症患者提供心理支持的潜力，重点关注罕见癌症患者群体。研究招募了来自日本四个不同地区的十名癌症患者及幸存者，参与者通过可定制化虚拟化身参与元宇宙会话，跨越地理与时间限制进行互动。通过问卷调查与质性反馈收集数据，评估干预措施的社会心理影响。结果显示，元宇宙使患者能够与同伴建立联系、分享经历并获得情感支持。虚拟化身提供的匿名性有助于缓解与外貌相关的焦虑及癌症治疗带来的病耻感。一项针对19岁脊柱尤文肉瘤男性患者的个案研究，突显了元宇宙互动带来的深刻情绪缓解作用。研究结果表明，将虚拟空间整合至医疗模式中，能有效满足儿童及青少年与年轻成人癌症患者的特殊需求，为提供社会心理支持和培育全球患者社群提供了变革性途径。这一创新性干预措施有望在数字时代彻底改变患者照护模式。
肿瘤(癌症)患者之家