Which type of tumor is characterized as non-cancerous?

A benign tumor is characterized as non-cancerous, which means it does not invade surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body. These tumors typically grow slowly and can often be removed with surgery if necessary. Most benign tumors do not pose a significant threat to health and are often asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause symptoms or major health issues, although their size and location can sometimes lead to complications.

In contrast, malignant tumors are cancerous and can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body, making them more aggressive and dangerous. Metastatic tumors refer specifically to cancer that has spread from its original site to other areas of the body. Lastly, palliative tumors are not a type of tumor but relate to palliative care, which focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, including cancer.