Gastroenterology

Immersive VR reduces anxiety and pain during GI cancer treatment in randomized trials

Systematic review of 14 RCTs (n=837) found IVR lowered anxiety (SMD -0.58) versus controls. IVR also reduced pain (SMD -0.75) across perioperative and chemotherapy settings. Subgroup analyses showed larger anxiolytic effects during active treatment and with sessions ≥20 minutes. Certainty ranged from moderate to very low because of risk of bias and imprecision, limiting definitive claims. 1

Workshop synopsis: methodological standards needed for RWE on GLP‑1 therapies

National workshop emphasized that RWD can answer practical GLP‑1RA questions not covered by trials. Speakers recommended pragmatic trials and target‑trial emulation to strengthen causal inference. The synopsis warns of threats from data quality issues, selection bias, and incomplete medication capture. Robust study design and analytic transparency are essential before RWE informs clinical policy. 2

RWE holds promise for GLP‑1RA regulatory and coverage decisions with important caveats

Workshop presenters highlighted RWE's ability to detect rare harms and long‑term effectiveness for GLP‑1RAs. Challenges include inconsistent coverage, high discontinuation, off‑label use, and incomplete outcome capture. Panelists urged investments in data infrastructure and bias‑reduction strategies for reliable regulatory use. Until those gaps are addressed, RWE should supplement, not replace, randomized trial evidence. 3