Improving Lung Cancer Screening for Tribal Communities in Oklahoma

Lung Cancer Screening to Improve Equity in Tribal Communities in Oklahoma (Lung-Screen-Tribal OK)

NIH-funded research University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11194491

This project aims to make lung cancer screening more accessible and effective for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in rural Oklahoma.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oklahoma City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11194491 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Lung cancer is a major health concern for American Indian and Alaska Native communities, especially in rural Oklahoma, where many face higher rates of the disease and lower survival. While lung cancer screening using low-dose CT scans can save lives, many tribal communities haven't had easy access to it. This project works closely with Cherokee Nation Health Services and Public Health to create a new, culturally sensitive lung cancer screening program. We hope to identify and overcome barriers like transportation and other social needs, making it easier for people to get screened. The goal is to develop a program that truly fits the needs of these communities and helps more people get screened early.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates are American Indian and Alaska Native individuals living in rural Oklahoma who are at risk for lung cancer, such as those with a history of smoking.

Not a fit: Patients who are not American Indian or Alaska Native, or who do not reside in rural Oklahoma, may not directly benefit from this specific program.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to earlier detection of lung cancer, improving survival rates and overall health for tribal members in Oklahoma.

How similar studies have performed: The National Lung Screening Trial previously showed that low-dose CT screening significantly reduces lung cancer deaths, and this project aims to adapt that proven method to better serve tribal communities.

Where this research is happening

Oklahoma City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.