JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Public health sun safety campaigns introduced during the 1980’s have successfully reduced skin cancer rates in Australia. Despite this success, high rates of sunburn continue to be reported by youth and young adults. As such, new strategies to reinforce sun protection approaches in this demographic are needed.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to develop a virtual reality (VR) game containing preventative skin cancer messaging, and to assess safety and satisfaction on the design based on end-user feedback.

Methods:

Using a two-phase design approach, we created a prototype VR game that immersed the player inside the human body while being confronted with growing cancer cells. The first design phase involved defining the problem, identifying stakeholders, choosing the technology platform, brainstorming and designing aesthetic elements. In the second design phase, we tested the prototype VR experience with stakeholders and end users in focus groups with feedback incorporated into refining and improving the design.

Results:

Qualitative feedback indicated high levels of satisfaction with all participants reporting the VR game as ‘engaging’. Regarding safety, two participants (11.1%) reported a side effect of feeling nauseous during the experience. The end user focus groups identified game improvements, suggesting an extended multi-stage experience with visual transitions to other environments and interactions involving cancer causation. The implementation of the VR game identified challenges around sharing VR equipment and hygiene issues.

Conclusions:

This study presents key findings highlighting the design approach for a VR health intervention primarily aimed at improving sun protection behaviours. This design approach could be applied to other health prevention programs in the future.