ASRT’s largest-ever grant awarded for new heart imaging research

The American Society of Radiologic Technologists’ charitable funding arm has awarded a $25,000 grant to an Ohio State University researcher studying cardiovascular imaging.

The figure marks the largest grant amount ever awarded in the 100-year history of the organization.

Kevin D. Evans, PhD, director of the Laboratory for Investigative Imaging at OSU, will use the money to test if sonography is as effective as CT calcium scoring for evaluating the abdominal aorta for calcific plaque. The former, according to Evans, may also limit a patient’s exposure to ionizing radiation while reducing costs associated with testing.

“We greatly appreciate this $25,000 award for our work in refining the cardiovascular risk assessment of patients 40-60 years of age,” Evans said in an announcement. “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.”

The ASRT Foundation awards grants based on the strength of applicants' proposals, and now offers funding for new and emerging research, along with an International Collaborative Clinical Research Grant of up to $50,000.

“The foundation is committed to developing and supporting research in the radiologic technology profession,” said Steve Hardy, 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.”

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Matt joined Chicago’s TriMed team in 2018 covering all areas of health imaging after two years reporting on the hospital field. He holds a bachelor’s in English from UIC, and enjoys a good cup of coffee and an interesting documentary.

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