China Lung Cancer Screening Market (2025 - 2033) Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Cancer (Non-small Cell Lung Cancer), By Diagnosis (Low Dose Spiral CT Scan), By End Use (Hospitals and Clinics), And Segment Forecasts

China Lung Cancer Screening Market Trends

The China lung cancer screening market size was estimated at USD 554.17 million in 2024, and is projected to reach USD 1,492.56 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 11.83% from 2025 to 2033. Several key factors drive market growth, including the high prevalence of lung cancer, advances in screening technology, supportive government policies, and increasing awareness about early detection.According to the Shanghai Municipal People's Government, in June 2024, lung cancer was observed as one of the most common and deadliest tumors in China, with approximately 800,000 new cases reported annually and around 70.0% of patients diagnosed at advanced or terminal stages, highlighting the urgent need for effective screening solutions to improve early diagnosis and treatment outcomes.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer incidence and mortality worldwide, and China carries the heaviest burden. Each year, an estimated 1.06 million new cases and 0.73 million deaths are attributed to lung cancer in the country, underscoring its status as a formidable public health challenge. Survival outcomes are strongly linked to stage at diagnosis: patients detected at stage IA have a 5-year survival rate of ~82%, compared to just ~7% in stage IVB, making early detection critical.

Historically, lung cancer in China has been diagnosed late, as early-stage disease presents few symptoms. Randomized controlled trials such as NLST (U.S.) and NELSON (Europe) demonstrated that low-dose CT (LDCT) screening can significantly reduce mortality. However, conventional LDCT presents challenges of false positives, overdiagnosis, and missed detection in high-risk groups not covered by international criteria. China has advanced localized screening protocols tailored to its population to address this. Risk factor profiling in western China-covering smoking, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and prior malignancies-has enabled more precise identification of high-risk cohorts.

A landmark advancement is the China Protocol, a four-pillar framework comprising:

• Screening - using three-dimensional thin-layer LDCT (Tre-LDCT) for enhanced nodule detection (96% sensitivity) and risk stratification through C-Lung-RADS.

• Diagnosis - applying AI-enabled imaging systems and integrating novel biomarkers (e.g., ctDNA methylation panels LunaCAM-S and LunaCAM-D) to differentiate malignant from benign nodules and reduce invasive biopsies.

• Treatment - incorporating non-invasive molecular characterization to guide targeted therapy (EGFR, ALK) and immunotherapy (PD-L1), supported by AI-based predictive models.

• Whole-process management - continuous monitoring with digital tools, mobile CT, 5G connectivity, and IoT platforms to extend access to underserved regions.

Recent developments have reinforced China’s leadership in rethinking lung cancer screening. In April 2025, findings from the LUNG-CARE Project in Guangzhou demonstrated that a non-risk-based LDCT approach-screening individuals regardless of smoking history achieved a 1.7% detection rate with 82.5% of cases at stage 0-I, reducing missed diagnoses compared with conventional high-risk criteria. Importantly, the study reported a 63% reduction in mortality versus unscreened cohorts, highlighting the potential of population-wide screening in China.

Complementing this, Chinese researchers are innovating in risk modeling for non-traditional cohorts. At the 2022 IASLC World Conference, Henan Cancer Hospital presented a lung cancer risk prediction nomogram for female non-smokers, identifying independent risk factors such as menopause, chronic respiratory disease, and benign breast disease. The model achieved AUC values above 0.70, offering a validated tool for risk stratification in one of the fastest-growing patient subgroups.

Public-private collaborations are also expanding access. In May 2024, Project HOPE and the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation launched the Rural Lung Cancer Care Program in Yunnan Province, combining LDCT screening, community awareness campaigns, and training for over 5,000 nurses to reach 11,000 individuals across rural China. This initiative underscores growing emphasis on equity and bridging healthcare gaps in underserved regions.

China is also emerging as a leader in precision diagnostics and companion testing. In September 2024, AmoyDx secured NMPA approval for its Pan Lung Cancer PCR Panel, enabling the detection of EGFR, ALK, ROS1, and METex14 skipping mutations, and serving as a companion diagnostic for drugs such as osimertinib, crizotinib, and gumarontinib. Similarly, the LungCure CDx, co-developed by Burning Rock Biotech and Dizal, received NMPA approval as the first co-developed NGS-based companion diagnostic in China, guiding the use of sunvozertinib (DZD9008) in EGFR exon 20 insertion-positive NSCLC. Trial data showed a 60.8% ORR, validating the role of NGS-based CDx in driving precision therapy adoption.

Results across pilot programs and regulatory approvals have been promising: between 2019 and 2023, early-stage detection rates in Chinese cohorts rose from 46.3% to 65.6%, while ultra-early stage (IA1) detection increased from 16% to 27.9%. Five-year survival rates improved to 59% overall, with >90% in early-stage cases.

Looking ahead, China’s lung cancer screening industry is expected to grow rapidly, driven by:

• Government-backed non-risk-based screening strategies.

• Rising adoption of AI-enabled LDCT and multi-modal biomarker assays.

• Expansion of liquid biopsy for recurrence and resistance monitoring.

• Increasing use of multi-omics (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics) for precision care.

• Regulatory support for companion diagnostics accelerating targeted therapy uptake.

While challenges remain, including interpretability of AI systems, cost containment, and the need for long-term validation across diverse populations, China is setting benchmarks in population-tailored screening, AI-enabled diagnostics, rural access programs, and precision oncology integration. These innovations will likely transform domestic outcomes and position China as a global leader in next-generation lung cancer screening and management.

Market Concentration & Characteristics

The market is experiencing significant innovation driven by technological advancements and increased research investment. Innovations include the development of advanced imaging techniques like low-dose computed tomography (LDCT), which enhances early detection of lung cancer with minimal radiation exposure. AI-driven tools are also emerging, offering advanced image analysis that improves diagnostic accuracy and speed. For instance, in June 2024, DELFI Diagnostics, Inc., known for its innovative blood-based AI tests, revealed data on its FirstLook Lung test. This report highlights the test’s exceptional performance and potential in enhancing lung cancer detection. FirstLook Lung is the first validated high-sensitivity test of its kind. This advancement marks a significant step forward in bridging the gap in current screening methodologies.

The market in China has seen increased merger and acquisition (M&A) activities as companies focus on consolidating their positions and expanding their technological capabilities. Key players in the market are acquiring smaller firms specializing in advanced diagnostic technologies and AI solutions. There has been a notable trend of established diagnostic companies merging with AI startups to integrate advanced data analytics and machine learning capabilities into their screening solutions.

Regulatory bodies play a crucial role in shaping the approval of diagnostic solutions. The National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) oversees the approval and regulation of medical devices and diagnostic technologies. Recent regulatory initiatives have focused on streamlining approval processes for innovative screening technologies and ensuring that new products meet stringent safety and efficacy standards.

The product expansion in the China lung cancer screening industry is driven by several key factors, including high disease prevalence, technological advancements, and supportive government initiatives.Companies are expanding their product offerings to include advanced technologies such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT), digital radiography, and AI-enhanced imaging systems to address this.

The market is substantially growing, driven by increasing regional efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and screening programs. The government in China is significantly investing in advanced diagnostic tools and expanding access to screening services. Several provinces have launched state-funded initiatives to enhance the availability of low-dose CT scans, particularly in rural and underserved areas, to facilitate early detection and lower mortality rates. In August 2024, Chinese Hospital was designated a Center of Excellence (COE) by GO2 for Lung Cancer in recognition of its dedication to offering patient-centered, evidence-based lung cancer screening in the San Francisco area.

Cancer Insights

Non-small cell lung cancer held the largest share of 81.13% in 2024, driven by the high prevalence, advancements in diagnostic technology, supportive government policies, and improvements in healthcare infrastructure. In China, NSCLC is particularly prevalent due to high smoking rates and environmental pollution, contributing to a significant burden of disease. According to AstraZeneca, in June 2024, China records over one million new lung cancer diagnoses annually, representing over a third of global cases. Among these, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most prevalent type, with around 40% of Chinese patients exhibiting tumors with EGFR mutations. In addition, a significant proportion of NSCLC cases are identified at advanced stages. The high incidence rates drive demand for effective screening solutions to enable early detection and improve patient outcomes.

The small cell lung cancer (SCLC) segment is expected to grow fastest over the forecast period. Although less common than non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), SCLC is known for its aggressive nature and rapid progression. According to data published by the National Institute of Health in October 2023, SCLC represents about 15% of all lung cancer cases in China. The growing number of SCLC diagnoses contributes to the rising demand for effective screening solutions. The aggressive nature of SCLC necessitates early and accurate detection to improve survival rates, driving increased investment in diagnostic technologies. Advances in treatment for SCLC, including new chemotherapy regimens and targeted therapies, also contribute to the increased focus on early detection.

Diagnosis Insights

On the basis of diagnosis, low dose spiral CT (LDCT) scan held the largest share at 70.89% in 2024 and is also expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. LDCT is recognized for its effectiveness in detecting early-stage lung cancer, particularly in high-risk populations such as long-term smokers and individuals with a history of exposure to carcinogens. Studies, including those from the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST), have demonstrated that LDCT significantly reduces lung cancer mortality by identifying tumors at an early, more treatable stage. This high accuracy in detecting small, potentially life-threatening tumors contributes to its dominant market share.

Increased public awareness about the benefits of early lung cancer detection and the expansion of screening programs contribute to the rising demand for LDCT. Awareness campaigns and educational initiatives encourage more individuals to undergo regular screenings, driving the growth of LDCT in the market.A Chinese recommendation for the early detection and screening of lung cancer recommends LDCT screening for people aged 50 to 74 years who meet any of the following conditions, including passive smoking, heavy smoking, occupational exposure history, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and family history of lung cancer.

End Use Insights

Diagnostic centers held the largest share of 45.22% in 2024. Diagnostic centers are specialized facilities equipped with advanced imaging technologies and staffed by highly trained medical professionals. They offer comprehensive diagnostic services, including Low Dose Spiral CT (LDCT) scans, which are essential for the early detection of lung cancer. The concentration of specialized equipment and expertise in these centers enables accurate and efficient screenings, a key factor driving their significant market share. The Chinese government has actively promoted lung cancer screening programs, with diagnostic centers central to these initiatives. Policies and recommendations from the National Health Commission support the integration of LDCT screening into routine diagnostic practices, further solidifying the role of diagnostic centers.

The hospitals & clinics segment is anticipated to grow fastest over the forecast period. Hospitals and clinics are increasingly equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies, such as advanced Low Dose Spiral CT (LDCT) scanners and PET/CT imaging systems. These advanced tools enable precise and early detection of lung cancer, making hospitals and clinics essential in providing accurate and timely diagnoses. Integrating these technologies into hospital and clinic settings enhances their ability to manage high-risk patients and conduct large-scale screening programs.Hospitals and clinics offer a holistic approach to lung cancer care, integrating screening with treatment and follow-up services. This comprehensive model attracts patients, obtaining continuity of care, from initial diagnosis to treatment and management. The ability to provide a full spectrum of services within a single facility drives the preference for hospitals and clinics over standalone diagnostic centers.

Key China Lung Cancer Screening Company Insights

The competitive scenario in the China lung cancer screening market is high, with key players such as Biodesix, DELFI Diagnostics, Inc., GE HealthCare, Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co., Ltd., Siemens Healthineers AG, Koninklijke Philips N.V., CANON MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION, Medtronic, Shanghai United Imaging Healthcare Co., LTD, Freenome Holdings, Inc. holding significant positions. The major companies are undertaking various strategies such as new product development, mergers, collaborations, acquisitions, collaborations, and regional expansion to serve the unmet needs of their customers.

Recent Developments

• In August 2022, Henan Cancer Hospital developed and validated a lung cancer risk prediction nomogram for female non-smokers in China, identifying five independent risk factors and achieving strong predictive performance (AUC ~0.70).

• In May 2024, Project HOPE and the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation launched the Rural Lung Cancer Care Program in Yunnan Province, aiming to screen 3,600 adults, train 5,400 nurses, and reach 11,000 residents across rural and underserved regions.

• In September 2024, AmoyDx received NMPA approval for its Pan Lung Cancer PCR Panel as a companion diagnostic for NSCLC patients with EGFR, ALK, ROS1, and METex14 skipping mutations, enabling the use of therapies like osimertinib, crizotinib, and gumarontinib.

• In September 2024, AmoyDx also secured NMPA approval for a companion diagnostic assay for METex14 skipping mutations, specifically guiding therapy with Haiyitan® (gumarontinib) in advanced NSCLC.

• In April 2025, researchers from the LUNG-CARE Project (Guangzhou) published landmark results showing that a non-risk-based LDCT screening strategy achieved a 1.7% detection rate, with 82.5% diagnosed at stage 0-I, and reduced lung cancer mortality by 63% compared to unscreened cohorts.

• In 2025, the LUNG-CARE initiative also reported that conventional NCCN and Chinese “high-risk” definitions would have missed 44-81% of lung cancers, highlighting the importance of population-wide or broadened screening in China.

• In March 2022, Burning Rock Biotech and Dizal received NMPA Class III approval for LungCure CDx, the first co-developed NGS-based companion diagnostic in China, guiding the use of sunvozertinib (DZD9008) in EGFR exon 20 insertion-positive NSCLC.

 China Lung Cancer Screening Market Report Scope

China Lung Cancer Screening Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends and opportunities in each of the sub-segments from 2021 to 2033.  For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the China lung cancer screening market report based on cancer, diagnosis, and end use:

• Cancer Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

  • Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

  • Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

• Diagnosis Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

  • Low Dose Spiral CT Scan

  • Chest X-ray

• End Use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

  • Hospitals and Clinics

  • Diagnostic Centers

  • Others