Which of the following best describes the nature of benign tumors?

Benign tumors are characterized by their non-invasive nature and their lack of metastasis. This means that they do not spread to other parts of the body like malignant tumors do. Instead, benign tumors typically remain localized and grow at a slower rate compared to their malignant counterparts. They often have well-defined boundaries and can often be removed surgically without the associated risks of spreading cancerous cells to other tissues or organs. The fact that benign tumors do not metastasize is crucial in distinguishing them from malignant tumors, which can invade nearby tissues and spread, posing greater health risks.

The other descriptions of benign tumors, such as their potential to invade surrounding tissues, being life-threatening, or being always symptomatic, do not accurately reflect their nature. While benign tumors can cause discomfort or health issues depending on their size and location, they are generally not life-threatening and do not exhibit the aggressive characteristics associated with cancerous tumors.