For the Newly Diagnosed

Young lung cancer patients posing together at the Brushes with Cancer event in Chicago, Illinois

You Just Got a Lung Cancer Diagnosis. Here's What Comes Next.

You are not alone in this. You are not to blame for this. And you are not without options.

YLCI was built specifically for people like you. Everything on this page is here to help you take the next right step — not all the steps at once, just the next one.

Step 1

Request comprehensive biomarker testing

Biomarker testing analyzes your tumor’s DNA, RNA, or proteins, allowing doctors to select highly personalized, effective treatments.

Biomarker Testing Information
Educational Biomarker Series
A person in a lab coat standing with two others in a research lab

Step 2

Seek a thoracic oncologist or NCI-designated cancer center

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis involves many unique decisions. Many patients find it helpful to seek an opinion from a thoracic oncologist (a medical doctor who specializes exclusively in lung cancer) or to consult with a team at an NCI-Designated Cancer Center.

NCI Cancer Centers
Second Opinions
Group photo with Leah Phillips, Dr Singhi, Dr Florez and others at ASCO 2026

Step 3

Explore lung cancer communities

Connecting with peer groups and specific subtype organizations can provide invaluable support. Many patients find comfort, shared experiences, and tailored resources by connecting with others who understand their specific diagnosis.

Lung Cancer Groups
ALK Positive lung cancer advocates smile for a group photo

Step 4

Connect with other young patients

Find and connect with others in the YLCI community.

Join our Private Facebook Group
YLCI in the Community
Connect on YLCI Instagram
Young lung cancer community holds up canvas lung paintings YLCI get together

Step 5

Explore your resources

Let us help you find what you are looking for.

Resource Directory
YLCI Education & Lived Experiences
YLCI Educational Materials
YLCI resource table

Step 6

Take care of your whole self

Resources for financial resources, family support, and mental health.

View YLCI Programs

Have a question?

What is biomarker testing?

Biomarker testing, also called genomic or molecular testing, analyzes lung cancer cells to identify specific genetic mutations or alterations driving the cancer’s growth. It can be done through a tissue biopsy or a liquid biopsy (a blood draw). For young adults, this testing is especially critical because lung cancer in younger people is more likely to have targetable driver mutations, such as  EGFR, HER2, ALK, or  ROS1. YLCI strongly encourages all patients to ask their team about comprehensive biomarker testing.

How do I go about getting a second opinion?

Getting a second opinion is a normal and important part of cancer care. It is not a sign that you don’t trust your doctor.  A second opinion is a way to make sure you understand all of your options and feel confident in your treatment plan.

Here are a few tips:

  1. Ask your current oncologist for a referral. Most doctors expect and support second opinions.
  2. Seek out a thoracic oncologist who specializes in lung cancer, ideally at an NCI-designated cancer center.
  3. Contact the institution directly to schedule an appointment. Many centers have dedicated teams to help new patients.
  4. Prepare questions in advance about your diagnosis, treatment options, biomarker testing, and clinical trials.

Even if the second opinion confirms your current treatment plan, it can provide reassurance and help you move forward with greater confidence. The most important thing is to make sure you are receiving care from a team with expertise in lung cancer.

What is a NCI-Designated Cancer Center and how do I find one near me?

An NCI-Designated Cancer Center is a hospital or research institution recognized by the U.S. National Cancer Institute for its excellence in cancer research, treatment, and patient care. These centers often have specialists who focus on specific cancers, access to the latest treatments and clinical trials, and multidisciplinary teams that work together to develop the best treatment plan for each patient.

To find an NCI-Designated Cancer Center near you:

  1. Visit the National Cancer Institute website and search their list of designated centers.
  2. Ask your oncologist if there is an NCI-Designated Cancer Center within driving distance.
  3. Connect with patient advocacy organizations that can help guide you to lung cancer specialists and resources.

If possible, seek care from a thoracic oncologist at an NCI-Designated Cancer Center, especially at diagnosis or when making major treatment decisions. Even if you receive most of your care locally, a consultation with a specialist can help ensure you are exploring all available options.

What questions should I be asking my doctors?

A lung cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, and it’s easy to forget what you wanted to ask during appointments. Consider bringing a notebook, using your phone to take notes, or having a family member or friend join you for support.

Some important questions to ask include:

  • What type and stage of lung cancer do I have?
  • Have I had comprehensive biomarker testing?
  • What are my treatment options and goals?
  • Should I get a second opinion?
  • Are there any clinical trials that may be right for me?
  • What side effects should I expect, and how can they be managed?
  • Who should I contact if I have questions or concerns between appointments?

Remember, there are no bad questions. The more informed you are, the better equipped you’ll be to make decisions and advocate for your care.

YLCI co-founders Bianca Bye and Leah Phillips at the GO2 for Lung Cancer gala in San Francisco
Two young lung cancer advocates and patient smile together at Lungevity Hope Summit
Three lung cancer advocates smile together outdoors at world conference on lung cancer in Barcelona Spain

Ready to connect with a community that gets it?

There are thousands of people in YLCI’s community who have sat exactly where you are sitting right now — completely blindsided, overwhelmed, and terrified — and who have found their footing, their community, and their next step.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Join our community.