Chul S. Hyun, MD, PhD, MPH

The Gastric Cancer Prevention Lab at Yale

The Gastric Cancer Prevention Lab, which I lead at Yale, conducts clinically grounded and policy-relevant research to reduce the burden of gastric cancer through risk-based early detection and prevention. Our work lies at the intersection of gastroenterology, public health, and health equity, with a particular focus on immigrant and other high-risk populations in the United States.

A. Epidemiology and Structural Disparities

We analyze large national datasets to understand how geography, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic conditions, and healthcare structures contribute to variations in gastric cancer incidence and outcomes. Using metrics such as Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), we quantify state-level burden and identify regions and populations disproportionately affected by late-stage diagnosis. This work informs targeted prevention and policy interventions.

B. Risk Stratification and Predictive Modeling

To address the absence of U.S. screening guidelines, we are developing a migration-informed risk index that incorporates demographic, clinical, and migration-related variables to identify individuals at highest risk for Helicobacter pylori infection and gastric cancer. Ongoing validation uses real-world data from high-incidence communities, and we are collaborating with health systems to explore EHR-based applications for clinical decision support.

C. Provider Education and Decision Support

Early detection depends on clinician awareness. Our lab is creating training modules for GI fellows and gastroenterologists covering epidemiology, endoscopic recognition, and management of high-risk patients. We are also developing point-of-care referral tools to improve H. pylori testing and surveillance. Ongoing surveys of primary care physicians and trainees help us identify knowledge gaps and tailor educational strategies.

D. Community-Based Implementation Studies

We lead real-world screening pilots in partnership with community organizations serving immigrant populations. These projects test the feasibility and acceptability of H. pylori screening, assess outcomes and patient experiences, and integrate findings back into our risk models and provider-facing tools.

E. Policy Engagement and Advocacy

Our team collaborates with policymakers, advocacy groups, and professional societies to translate research into action. We contribute to federal and state initiatives, guideline development, and advocacy campaigns aimed at reducing disparities and embedding risk-based prevention strategies into clinical practice.

F. Evidence-Based Medicine and Meta-Research

We apply tools of meta-research—including reproducibility checks, reporting guideline assessments, and bias evaluation—to strengthen the evidence base in gastric cancer prevention. By critically appraising existing studies, we aim to clarify which risk factors and interventions are most credible, reproducible, and ready for translation into policy and practice.

G. Training and Mentorship

The lab provides hands-on opportunities for medical students, residents, fellows, and public health trainees. Mentored projects include analysis of national and community datasets, survey design, manuscript development, and participation in implementation studies. Our goal is to prepare the next generation of clinician-researchers to lead in cancer prevention, health equity, and translational science.