More Kentuckians screened. Lung cancer detected earlier. Longer, healthier lives. Put simply, that’s the goal of a research project in Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) College of Health Sciences.
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, which puts the spotlight on the prevention and education measures being implemented across the country. Kentucky has the highest incidence and mortality rates of lung cancer in the country, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. To help address the crisis, Kentucky became one of the first states in the country to pass legislation establishing a screening program in 2022. The Kentucky Lung Cancer Screening Program (KLCSP) strives to increase lung cancer screening, reducing morbidity and reducing cost.
EKU plays a crucial role in this state-led effort with EKU Associate Dean and Professor of Public Health, Dr. Michelyn Wilson Bhandari, along with Associate Chair and Associate Professor Dr. Heather Tudor and Assistant Professor Dr. Brittani Moberly, conducting externally funded research to evaluate the KLCSP.
“Our goal is to provide clear, actionable information that tells the story of the program—its successes and its impact toward the program’s aims,” said Bhandari, lead researcher on the project. “Specifically, we aim to deliver an annual evaluation report, refine the evaluation plan as needed and support KLCSP.”
The research project helps KLCSP find answers to several questions related to lung cancer screening in the Commonwealth.
“We’re working hand-in-hand with state partners to address the most pressing issues facing Kentuckians,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “From providing educated and trained graduates for the workforce to conducting research on critical healthcare topics, EKU is improving the quality of life in our communities at every turn.”
With funding of more than $74,000 over two years, the team at EKU looks at ways the KLCSP can improve the screening process across the state through questions regarding efforts to reduce lung cancer mortality over time and detection rates of early-stage lung cancers compared to late-stage cases.
“Progress on these questions has direct implications for lives saved and for healthcare costs,” said Bhandari. “We want to see our recommendations adopted to improve the program’s effectiveness.”
With preliminary results, researchers on the project already make informed suggestions for the program, such as expanded targeted outreach, especially in rural areas.
In addition to making an impact at the state and community level, this research also helps EKU build stronger partnerships and establishes the school as a health evaluation resource for the state.
“It positions EKU’s College of Health Sciences as a trusted statewide partner for rigorous, actionable public-health evaluation—showcasing EKU’s capacity to design evaluation plans, analyze data and translate findings into program improvements for Kentuckians,” said Bhandari.Students in EKU’s College of Health Sciences work hand-in-hand with faculty researchers and apply their learning throughout communities. In programs like Public Health, Healthcare Administration and others, EKU students gain valuable experience while preparing for impactful careers to make a difference in the Commonwealth. EKU’s Public Health program ranks among the best in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Graduate Schools.
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