A recent study has shown that genomic and proteomic tests based on blood samples can be important in the diagnosis of lung cancer patients. Non-small cell lung cancer is a group of lung cancer types that share common characteristics but have different genetic profiles that allow patients to respond differently to specific treatments. In this study, researchers demonstrated that genomic and proteomic testing of blood samples can quickly identify genetic mutations to help determine the best and most accurate treatments. Blood tests can both provide important diagnostic information more quickly than common biopsy methods and significantly reduce the waiting time between diagnosis and treatment. ”Lung cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, so doctors should make treatment choices for their patients as soon as possible, and as soon as possible. Thanks to some recent advances in cancer genetics and protein biology, lung cancer treatment is becoming more individualized. Determining which treatment is best for a lung cancer involves considering not only the size and spread of the tumor, but also the genetic makeup of the tumor. Waiting for the results of a biopsy sample to determine the right next step can delay treatment by weeks and sometimes months,” said article author Dr. Jennifer Mattingly. “In contrast, genomic and proteomic assays based on blood samples can yield results quickly and accurately, thereby greatly reducing the wait time between diagnosis and treatment.” Further study results will be presented at the annual CHEST meeting on October 26, 2016, in Los Angeles, CA. A summary of the study can be viewed online at the CHEST Journal’s website.