Virtual reality for the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders: A systematic review

Abstract

Introduction: Eating and weight disorders (EWD) are characterized by intense fear of gaining weight and control behaviors. People affected by a EWD present worse quality of life than the general population, and the management of their complications implies high socio-sanitary costs. Materials and methods: In order to verify the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) as a diagnostic and/or supportive tool for the treatment of EWD, a systematic review of articles published between 2012 and 2018 in PubMed (MEDLINE) was carried out. Results: 7 articles that used RV as treatment, 5 as diagnostic support and 3 as both were selected (N=15). Conclusions: VR demonstrates effectiveness in mitigating anxiety when exposed to food, reducing exaggerated weight control behaviors, and facilitating the therapeutic approach to self-concept and body image. It has also demonstrated greater efficacy in comparison to treatment as usual or as a second level treatment.