Cancer is a very serious and frightening topic of discussion, but it’s important to understand the various types of cancer and their underlying causes. Cervical cancer and ovarian cancer are two distinct diseases that affect women’s reproductive health, although they are sometimes confused by laypeople or conflated by medical researchers who don’t specialize in gynecology. To help clear up any confusion about the differences between cervical and ovarian cancers, let’s first define what each type of cancer entails before delving into more detail about how they differ from one another.
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is a serious and dangerous type of cancer that impacts the cervix or the lower part of the uterus. Cervical cancer usually develops gradually over time due to abnormal changes in the female reproductive cells on the surface of the cervix known as squamous cell carcinoma.
It can also develop from adenocarcinoma, which forms in the glandular cells in and around the cervical area. Cervical cancer is considered to be a slow-moving form of cancer, but if left untreated it can become life-threatening quickly. Early detection and timely treatment are key to ensure a full recovery from this type of cancer.
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian Cancer is a serious, life-threatening disease that affects females and goes undetected in its early stages. It begins in cells of the ovary – one of the female reproductive organs – and can spread throughout the pelvis and abdomen. Ovarian cancer typically develops in women over 50, but it is possible for younger women to develop the condition as well. If Ovarian Cancer is identified and treated early enough, the long-term survival of those affected is greatly increased. Regular checkups are recommended to help catch Ovarian Cancer at an early stage before it can do too much damage.
Difference between Cervical Cancer and Ovarian Cancer
Cervical and Ovarian Cancer are two types of gynecological cancers that affect women worldwide.
- Cervical cancer is caused by the Human papillomavirus (HPV) is sexually transmitted, and it begins in the tissues of the cervix.
- On the other hand, ovarian cancer develops in the ovaries which produce eggs for reproduction.
- The cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, however, diet and lifestyle may play a role in its development.
- Cervical cancer is usually treatable if caught early; however, once it spreads to nearby organs and lymph nodes, treatments become more difficult.
Similarly, although ovarian cancer can be treated with chemotherapy, there are few signs to detect the disease early on. Thus regular screening tests are recommended for both Cervical and Ovarian Cancers so that patients have access to early life-saving treatments available in modern-day medicine.
Conclusion
It is important to know the difference between these two types of cancer as treatment and outlook for each type are different. If you have any symptoms that may be indicative of either cancer, it is best to see your doctor for further testing. Symptoms of cervical cancer can often be treated successfully if caught early, so don’t hesitate to speak with your doctor if you have any concerns.
