LUNG CANCER BIOMARKER TESTING

Biomarker testing is transforming lung cancer care and improving survival rates by helping doctors choose the most effective, personalized treatments for each patient. Through a tissue or blood test, doctors can identify specific genetic mutations or protein markers driving a person’s cancer. This information allows them to match patients with targeted therapies or immunotherapies that are far more effective and less toxic than traditional chemotherapy. Biomarker testing increases response rates, extends survival, and gives people living with lung cancer more time and better quality of life.

What Is Biomarker Testing?

Biomarker testing looks for genetic changes or proteins in your tumor—often through a tissue biopsy or a simple blood test (liquid biopsy). These changes can guide doctors in choosing the most effective treatment plan for you.
It’s especially important for people with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Why It Matters

  • Personalized Treatment – No two cancers are exactly alike. Biomarker testing allows doctors to match you with therapies designed for your cancer’s unique makeup—improving survival and quality of life.
  • Targeted Therapies & Immunotherapy – Some biomarkers show whether you’re eligible for targeted treatments or immunotherapy, which use your immune system to fight cancer.
  • Monitor Treatment & Disease Progress – Testing can also help track how well your treatment is working and whether your cancer is returning.
  • Access to Clinical Trials – Cutting-edge therapies are often available only through clinical trials that require biomarker testing to participate.

Be Your Own Advocate

Many patients don’t know they should ask for biomarker testing and it’s not always offered automatically. That’s why it’s so important to speak up and ask your doctor:

“Has my tumor been tested for biomarkers?”
“Should I wait for the results before starting treatment?”
“Am I eligible for targeted therapy or a clinical trial?”

Waiting for the results might take a couple of weeks but it’s worth it to get the right treatment from the start.

DON’T WAIT—talk to your care team about biomarker testing today.

 

LEARN MORE

Watch our easy to follow educational videos about understanding biomarker testing, next-generation sequencing and comprehensive genomic profiling for lung cancer, and why biomarker testing is important.