Lung Cancer Diagnostics Market Size and Forecast 2025–2033

Introduction: A Market at the Center of Early Cancer Care

Lung cancer remains one of the world’s most challenging public health burdens, accounting for millions of new cases and deaths each year. Yet the narrative around lung cancer is changing. Advances in imaging, molecular diagnostics, and biomarker-driven testing are moving detection earlier, improving treatment selection, and ultimately extending survival. This transformation is reflected in the expanding commercial landscape for diagnostic technologies.

According to Renub Research, the Lung Cancer Diagnostics Market is projected to grow from US$ 20.28 billion in 2024 to US$ 38.00 billion by 2033, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.23% from 2025 to 2033. Market expansion is being driven by a growing emphasis on early detection, rising disease prevalence in both smokers and environmentally exposed populations, and rapid innovation in molecular and imaging technologies.

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While lung cancer care has traditionally focused on late-stage intervention, today’s healthcare systems are pivoting toward earlier diagnosis, risk stratification, and personalized treatment—placing diagnostics at the very heart of oncology strategies worldwide.

Market Overview: What Is Lung Cancer Diagnostics?

Lung cancer diagnostics encompasses the tools, tests, and technologies used to detect, characterize, and monitor lung tumors. These include conventional imaging such as chest X-rays, computed tomography (CT), and MRI; tissue-based methods such as biopsies and histopathology; and a growing suite of molecular approaches including polymerase chain reaction (PCR), next-generation sequencing (NGS), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and liquid biopsy-based blood tests.

The goal of modern diagnostics is no longer limited to identifying whether cancer is present. Instead, clinicians now seek to understand tumor genetics, biomarker expression, and treatment responsiveness at the earliest possible stage. This shift toward precision oncology has expanded the role of diagnostics from simple detection to an essential decision-making platform for targeted therapies and immuno-oncology.

Public health campaigns, rising awareness of lung cancer risk factors, and the increasing availability of screening programs have further increased testing volumes. Together, these forces have made lung cancer diagnostics a strategic priority for healthcare providers, research institutions, and diagnostic technology companies alike.

Growth Drivers: Why the Market Is Accelerating

Several converging factors are fueling sustained growth in the lung cancer diagnostics market:

1. Rising Prevalence and Early Screening

Lung cancer incidence remains high globally, particularly in aging populations and in regions affected by smoking, air pollution, and occupational exposure. Governments and healthcare systems are increasingly prioritizing early detection through low-dose CT screening programs, expanding the pool of individuals undergoing diagnostic evaluation.

2. Precision Medicine and Molecular Profiling

Targeted therapies and immunotherapies depend on accurate molecular characterization of tumors. Biomarkers such as EGFR, ALK, ROS1, BRAF, KRAS, and PD-L1 have made molecular diagnostics indispensable in treatment selection, dramatically increasing demand for advanced testing platforms.

3. Technological Advancements

Innovations in NGS, liquid biopsy, digital pathology, and AI-assisted imaging are improving accuracy, speed, and accessibility. Non-invasive blood-based testing is particularly transformative, allowing for real-time monitoring and earlier detection without the risks associated with tissue biopsy.

4. Healthcare Infrastructure Expansion

Growing investment in diagnostic laboratories, public access facilities, and emergency services is expanding the reach of diagnostic technologies across both developed and emerging economies.

Competitive Landscape: Top Players Shaping the Market

The lung cancer diagnostics market is characterized by a mix of multinational life science leaders, specialized molecular diagnostics firms, and technology-driven healthcare innovators. Key companies include:

1. Illumina, Inc. (Founded 1998, USA)

Illumina is a global leader in genomic sequencing and array-based technologies. Its sequencing platforms and consumables are widely used in cancer research, translational genomics, and molecular diagnostics. In lung cancer, Illumina’s NGS systems enable high-throughput detection of actionable mutations and biomarker profiling, making them central to precision oncology workflows.

2. Abbott Laboratories (Founded 1888, USA)

Abbott develops and markets a broad portfolio of diagnostic solutions, including point-of-care systems, rapid tests, and core laboratory instruments. In oncology, Abbott’s platforms support biomarker testing, informatics, and automated workflows across hospitals and diagnostic laboratories worldwide.

3. Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (Established 2006, USA)

Thermo Fisher provides analytical instruments, life science reagents, molecular biology products, and clinical diagnostics. Its brands—such as Applied Biosystems and Invitrogen—play a critical role in PCR, NGS, and molecular oncology testing, serving pharmaceutical firms, hospitals, and research institutions.

4. QIAGEN N.V. (Founded 1984, Netherlands)

QIAGEN specializes in molecular testing solutions for DNA, RNA, and protein extraction and analysis. Its assay technologies, automation platforms, and bioinformatics tools enable advanced tumor profiling and biomarker detection, supporting both clinical diagnostics and research.

5. F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. (Established 1896, Switzerland)

Roche is a global leader in in-vitro diagnostics and oncology therapeutics. The company provides integrated solutions for tissue-based cancer diagnosis, molecular testing, and personalized medicine, with a strong focus on companion diagnostics for targeted therapies.

Product Launches and Innovation

Innovation remains a cornerstone of competitive advantage in this market:

Sanofi S.A. continues development of Fresolimumab, currently in Phase II clinical trials for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). While primarily a therapeutic candidate, such advancements reinforce the demand for precise companion diagnostics to guide patient selection.

Agilent Technologies announced in March 2025 that its PD-L1 IHC 28-8 pharmDx kit received two new companion diagnostic approvals under EU IVDR, expanding use to early-stage NSCLC and previously untreated advanced melanoma. This milestone increases treatment eligibility and underscores the importance of validated biomarker assays in lung cancer management.

SWOT Insights: Competitive Strengths in Focus

bioMérieux – Strength: Molecular and Biomarker Expertise

bioMérieux’s key advantage lies in its deep expertise in molecular diagnostics and biomarker-based technologies. With advanced PCR systems, immunoassays, and NGS integration, the company supports accurate detection of genetic mutations linked to lung cancer. Its strong regulatory compliance, clinical credibility, and global laboratory partnerships position bioMérieux as a trusted contributor to precision diagnostics.

Myriad Genetics, Inc. – Strength: Leadership in Precision Oncology

Myriad’s strength stems from its leadership in genetic testing and bioinformatics. By combining proprietary databases with high-accuracy molecular assays, the company provides clinicians with actionable genomic insights for targeted lung cancer therapies. Its strong collaborations with pharmaceutical firms and research centers accelerate biomarker discovery and companion diagnostic development.

Recent Developments: Expanding Access and Capabilities

Siemens Healthineers AG partnered with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) under the “Rays of Hope” initiative to enhance diagnostic and treatment capabilities in low- and middle-income countries. The collaboration supports global efforts to improve cancer detection and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3, reinforcing the social impact of advanced diagnostic technologies.

Danaher Corporation announced in July 2024 the opening of two new CLIA- and CAP-certified laboratories dedicated to accelerating companion and complementary diagnostics development. These labs support targeted therapy selection by determining biomarker expression and therapy suitability, a critical step in modern lung cancer treatment.

Sustainability in Diagnostics: A Growing Strategic Priority

Guardant Health, Inc.

Guardant Health integrates sustainability into its mission by expanding access to early cancer detection through non-invasive genomic testing. Environmentally, the company focuses on responsible laboratory practices, waste minimization, and efficient resource use. Socially, it promotes diversity, community health initiatives, and ethical data governance, ensuring that innovation aligns with broader ESG goals.

Veracyte, Inc.

Veracyte emphasizes sustainable healthcare by reducing unnecessary procedures through accurate genomic diagnostics. The company invests in energy-efficient laboratory operations, responsibly sourced materials, and inclusive workforce practices. By improving diagnostic precision, Veracyte contributes to lower healthcare waste while advancing global health outcomes.

Market Segmentation: A Multifaceted Landscape

The lung cancer diagnostics market can be analyzed across several dimensions:

By Technology:

Imaging (CT, MRI, X-ray)

Tissue-based diagnostics (biopsy, histopathology, IHC)

Molecular diagnostics (PCR, NGS, liquid biopsy)

By Application:

Screening and early detection

Tumor characterization and staging

Therapy selection (companion diagnostics)

Disease monitoring and recurrence detection

By End User:

Hospitals and oncology centers

Diagnostic laboratories

Research institutions and pharmaceutical companies

Molecular and liquid biopsy-based diagnostics are expected to experience the fastest growth due to their non-invasive nature and expanding role in personalized medicine.

Strategic Analysis: Market Share and Corporate Approaches

Major players such as Illumina, Abbott, Thermo Fisher, QIAGEN, and Roche dominate through broad product portfolios, global distribution networks, and sustained R&D investment. Emerging and specialized firms—including Guardant Health, Veracyte, Natera, and NanoString Technologies—are gaining traction by focusing on niche technologies, proprietary biomarkers, and innovative testing platforms.

Across the industry, strategies center on:

Mergers and acquisitions to expand technology capabilities

Partnerships with pharmaceutical companies to develop companion diagnostics

Investment in bioinformatics and AI for data interpretation

Sustainability initiatives to align with regulatory and social expectations

Forecast Outlook: 2025–2033

With the market projected to reach US$ 38.00 billion by 2033, lung cancer diagnostics is set for sustained expansion. Growth will be strongest in molecular testing, liquid biopsy, and AI-assisted imaging, as healthcare systems prioritize early detection and individualized treatment pathways. Regulatory frameworks supporting companion diagnostics and increasing reimbursement for advanced testing will further strengthen adoption.

Emerging markets are expected to contribute significantly as infrastructure improves and awareness campaigns broaden access to screening and diagnostic services.

Final Thoughts: Diagnostics as the Backbone of Precision Oncology

The lung cancer diagnostics market is no longer a supporting segment of oncology—it is a foundational pillar of modern cancer care. From early screening to biomarker-driven therapy selection, diagnostics shape every stage of the patient journey. The projected growth from US$ 20.28 billion in 2024 to US$ 38.00 billion by 2033 underscores the sector’s expanding clinical, technological, and economic importance.

As innovation continues and global access improves, lung cancer diagnostics will play an even greater role in reducing mortality, optimizing treatment outcomes, and advancing the promise of precision medicine. For healthcare providers, policymakers, and industry leaders, the message is clear: the future of lung cancer care begins with better, faster, and more personalized diagnostics.