Lung cancer is the second most frequent cause of cancer and a leading cause of death worldwide accounting 20% of all cancer-related deaths, and it is estimated to increase 45–90% by 2030. Despite the introduction of screening programs and new therapeutic strategies (i.e. targeted therapy) for specific subgroups of patients, the estimated 5-year survival rate is only 12%. Early detection and prompt intervention are crucial to improving the outcome of these patients.