Dr. Kevin D. Evans

The ASRT Foundation has announced the recipient of the largest research grant in its history. Kevin D. Evans, Ph.D., R.T.(R)(M)(BD), RDMS, RVS, director of The Laboratory for Investigative Imaging at The Ohio State University will receive a $25,000 award. The study, “Screening Asymptomatic Patients with Hand-held Ultrasound to Assess Their Risk of a Cardiovascular Event,” aims to test whether sonographic evaluation of the abdominal aorta for calcific plaque could provide the same level of assessment as computed tomography calcium scoring, without the exposure to ionizing radiation and increased costs.

“We greatly appreciate this $25,000 award for our work in refining the cardiovascular risk assessment of patients 40-60 years of age,” said Dr. Evans. “The investment of these landmark funds from the ASRT Foundation indicates the importance that the association has for scientific inquiry and supporting imaging scientists. This project has important significance as it is designed to address the need for better screening assessment for adults typically given a statin or medication to control hypertension, but not a more through diagnostic work-up.” Dr. Evans is the Chair of the Radiologic Sciences/Respiratory Therapy Division at The Ohio State University.

The ASRT Foundation research grant program provides radiologic science professionals with funding to conduct research in affiliation with an academic or clinical institution. The Foundation now offers research funding levels for new and emerging researchers along with an International Collaborative Clinical Research Grant.

“The Foundation is committed to developing and supporting research in the radiologic technology profession,” said Steve Hardy, M.S., R.T.(R)(T)(CT), CMD, chief operating officer for the ASRT Foundation and executive vice president of the development and corporate relations department for ASRT. “We’re very pleased to help provide significant funding for the valuable work of Dr. Evans and his colleagues at The Ohio State University.”

Grant recipients are selected based on the strength of their proposal and alignment with the overall mission of the ASRT Foundation. The Foundation’s Research and Grants Advisory Panel evaluated grant applications and made recommendations to the Board of Trustees for funding. Recipients were then approved by the Board of Trustees.