Effects of Virtual Reality‐Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Sick Role Adaptation for Patients With Colorectal Cancer: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Objectives To evaluate the effects of a virtual reality‐based cognitive behavioral therapy on sick role adaptation, psychological distress, illness perception and coping modes among young and middle‐age colorectal cancer patients. Methods This was a single‐blind, parallel‐arm randomised controlled trial. A total of 84 adults aged < 60 years with colorectal cancer were randomised to either an intervention group ( n = 42) receiving a 7‐session self‐led virtual reality‐based cognitive behavioral therapy or an attention control group ( n = 42) receiving regular health consultations. The sick role adaptation, illness perception, anxiety and depression, and coping modes were measured at baseline, 1‐month, 2‐month and 3‐month post‐intervention. Results Compared to the controls, the intervention group had significantly higher level of sick role adaptation, more positive illness perception, less anxiety and depression, more adaptative coping modes adopted. Conclusions The virtual reality‐based cognitive behavioral therapy enhanced adaptation to cancer in young and middle‐age patients with colorectal cancer. Trial Registration The study was registered on 21 June, 2023 in Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (No.: ChiCTR2300072699) at https://www.chictr.org.cn/