Physician relies on research, advanced treatments and building relationships to take 'scary' out of cancer care.

Published: October 11, 2018 | Updated: March 10, 2023

For many people, three of life’s scariest words are, “You have cancer.”

According to Adam D. Lye, M.D., the good news is that advances in research, technology and treatment are taking away some of that fear and providing real hope.

“Immunotherapy and targeted treatments have the potential to revolutionize the way we care for oncology patients,” Dr. Lye said. “We no longer rely solely upon chemotherapy, plus these newer treatments are typically much easier and more effective if used on the appropriate patient population.”

Dr. Lye, who recently joined Norton Cancer Institute, specializes in medical oncology and hematology. He has practice hours at the institute’s satellite office in Shepherdsville, Kentucky, on Mondays. As a native Kentuckian, he welcomes the opportunity to help meet the care needs of those who may live outside Metro Louisville.

When asked about his care philosophy, Dr. Lye said he sees himself as appropriately aggressive with treatment, while taking into account each patient’s care goals.

“I somewhat pride myself on being able to communicate and relate to my fellow Kentuckians by building honest and sincere relationships through clear communication,” he said.

Dr. Lye earned his medical degree from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine in Lexington, where he also completed his residency and fellowship. He is board certified in medical oncology and internal medicine.

Dr. Lye’s clinical interests also include lung cancer. He has done presentations on advances in lung cancer screening, lung cancer treatment, plus immunotherapy and breast cancer treatment. He has spoken at local and statewide events, including Fort Knox Grand Rounds and University of Kentucky cancer conferences. Dr. Lye has published journal articles on various topics, including the nutritional impact on immunotherapy, therapeutic plasma exchange and aplastic anemia.

“I love that we can combine cutting-edge technology and scientific advances to provide patients meaningful care and very real improvements in their overall outcomes and quality of life,” Dr. Lye said. “I feel like we have only scratched the surface of some of the advances that are yet to come in the treatment of cancer.”