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Media interview: PolyU’s HEROCARE eases anxiety and enhances care in paediatric cancer treatment

11 Dec 2025

Research and Innovation

In the RTHK TV programme "MagaSenior," Prof. Helen Law Ka Wai, Associate Head and Associate Professor at the Department of Health Technology and Informatics (HTI), and Dr Vincent Leung Wan Shun, Associate Professor of Practice at HTI at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), shared insights about the HEROCARE programme, which improves the experiences of paediatric cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.

The HEROCARE programme utilises the Hybrid Immersive Virtual Environment (HiVE) at PolyU to create positive experiences for both patients and caregivers, helping reduce fear and anxiety during treatment. Through personalised sessions and on-site hospital support, the programme enhances radiotherapy preparation and supports the physical and emotional well-being of its participants.

Prof. Law highlighted that the success of the HEROCARE programme extends beyond reducing reliance on anaesthesia. It also combines compassionate learning with clinical service, providing valuable practical experience for future radiographers. The initiative aims to establish itself as the standard service model for paediatric radiotherapy in Hong Kong, garnering broad support from hospitals, experts, and the academic community.

HEROCARE was developed during the challenging circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic when caregivers and social workers faced restriction in accessing hospital areas. By leveraging PolyU’s research facilities and expertise, the research team successfully developed this innovative initiative to support the clinical preparation for paediatric patients.

 

RTHK Interview Replay (In Chinese Only)

For More:

PolyU HEROCARE revolutionises paediatric radiotherapy with immersive technology, achieving an 88% reduction in anaesthesia use


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