What does the term 'benign' refer to in medical terminology?

In medical terminology, the term 'benign' refers to a condition that is non-cancerous and generally not harmful to the individual. A benign tumor, for instance, does not invade surrounding tissues or metastasize to other parts of the body, which distinguishes it from malignant tumors that are cancerous and can pose significant health risks. The understanding of 'benign' is crucial in the medical field as it provides reassurance that certain growths or conditions, while still requiring monitoring, do not carry the same level of threat as more serious or aggressive conditions. This distinction can significantly affect treatment approaches and patient management.