Feasibility and Design of a Virtual Reality Tool to Support Lung Cancer Patients’ Treatment Preparedness: EveryBreathMatters

Abstract

This study explores the feasibility and design preferences of a virtual reality (VR) intervention that aims to improve treatment preparedness among newly diagnosed lung cancer patients. We collected qualitative interviews from N = 10 providers and N = 20 lung cancer patients using purposive sampling. We collected feedback on treatment preparedness barriers, and VR preferences. We analyzed the data using an inductive thematic approach. Nearly all patients were comfortable with technology (90%) and VR decision-support (75%), with 35% reporting direct VR experience. Two primary themes emerged: Content, where both groups prioritized clear, tailored education on lung cancer stages, biomarkers, and treatment pathways; and Format and Delivery, with strong preferences for immersive, video-based VR modules under 30 min, modular navigation, home-based use, and accessibility features like subtitles.

Conclusions: A tailored, video-based VR intervention with modular, home-based modules and accessibility features meets patient and provider preferences. These insights guided the EveryBreathMatters prototype.