What is the Difference Between Early Detection and Screening

 Early detection and screening are both important in diagnosing diseases at an early stage, but they are not the same.

1. Screening is a preventive approach where medical tests are conducted on individuals who do not have any symptoms. The goal is to detect potential diseases before they cause noticeable health problems. Examples include mammograms for breast cancer, Pap smears for cervical cancer, and blood tests for diabetes. Screening is typically done on a large scale for at-risk groups.
   
   

2. Early Detection refers to identifying a disease as soon as possible, either through screening or by recognizing early signs and symptoms. It includes both routine check-ups and personal awareness of changes in the body that may indicate a health issue.

Cancer screening and early detection play a crucial role in reducing cancer-related mortality and improving treatment outcomes. By identifying cancer at an early stage, medical interventions can be more effective, less invasive, and have higher success rates.