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Video Game Helps Patients Battle Cancer

by Terrence O'Brien on August 10, 2009 at 03:05 PM

Video Game Helps Patients Battle CancerYou can believe it or not, but research is showing that video games could help teens battle cancer. Well, not just any video game; 'GTA 4' isn't going to rid anyone of leukemia, but a game called 'Re-Mission' from non-profit health organization HopeLab is proving to be a valuable tool for younger patients.

CNN spoke to Dan Neumann, a gamer and leukemia patient who, in 2004, became involved with a clinical trial of the game that eventually became 'Re-Mission.' Neumann told CNN he dreaded chemotherapy when he first joined the trial as a 14-year-old, but that the game made him feel more involved with his treatment. "You're actively playing something and shooting cells," he said.

In 'Re-Mission,' players control Roxxi, a nanobot who travels through the bodies of cancer patients destroying cancer cells, combating infections, and managing the side effects of cancer and its treatment. The game not only aims to make teens feel like they're playing an active part in their treatment, but also encourages them to learn more about their diseases. Research has shown that patients who play 'Re-Mission' not only are more informed about their cancer, but are also more likely to take their medication consistently.

A new version of the game is in the works, but won't see the light of day till 2012 at the earliest. Until then, those trying to cope with life as a cancer patient can download 'Re-Mission' for free from Re-Mission.net, and perhaps feel a little bit better as they blast the crap out of some virtual cancer cells. [From: CNN]
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Tags: cancer, cancer treatment, CancerTreatment, health, re-mission, teens, top

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