The difference between vocal cord polyps and laryngeal cancer is firstly notable in their nature. Vocal cord polyps are benign lesions, and their removal generally does not significantly affect the patient's quality of life or lifespan. Laryngeal cancer, as the name implies, is a malignant lesion that greatly affects both the patient's quality of life and lifespan. Location-wise, vocal cord polyps are found on the vocal cords, while laryngeal cancer can be located in one of three areas: on the vocal cords, known as glottic laryngeal cancer; below the vocal cords, known as subglottic laryngeal cancer; and above the vocal cords, known as supraglottic laryngeal cancer. The prognosis for vocal cord polyps is very good; after surgery, if the patient rests well, their future quality of life is generally unaffected. Laryngeal cancer is divided into three types: glottic, supraglottic, and subglottic, with glottic being the most common, accounting for about 80%. This type of laryngeal cancer usually presents early symptoms such as hoarseness, similar to vocal cord polyps. Therefore, glottic laryngeal cancer can often be detected early. With prompt and correct treatment, the postoperative results can be good. As it typically involves highly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma, if it is completely excised surgically and regularly reviewed postoperatively, it doesn't greatly impact lifespan or quality of life. In contrast, subglottic and supraglottic laryngeal cancers often show symptoms later, which means they tend to be diagnosed at a later stage, usually at a mid to advanced stage. Supraglottic laryngeal cancer, in particular, is prone to cervical lymph node metastasis, thus usually having a poorer prognosis compared to glottic laryngeal cancer. There's also a higher likelihood of recurrence and metastasis, and the surgery may involve greater trauma. These are the main differences.