What does the term "benign" refer to in relation to tumors?

The term "benign" in relation to tumors signifies that they are not cancerous. Benign tumors typically grow slowly, do not invade surrounding tissues, and rarely spread to other parts of the body, differentiating them significantly from malignant tumors, which are cancerous and can be aggressive. While benign tumors may sometimes require removal depending on their location or size, they are generally considered less dangerous than their malignant counterparts. This distinction is crucial in clinical settings, as it influences patient management and treatment options.