What is a tumor?

A tumor is defined as a new growth of abnormal cells that can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). This definition emphasizes the nature of tumors as abnormal proliferations of cells that arise from various tissues in the body, often due to genetic mutations or other factors that disrupt normal cell division and growth.

The distinction between benign and malignant tumors is significant. Benign tumors usually grow slowly and do not invade surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body, whereas malignant tumors can invade nearby structures and may metastasize to distant sites, posing a serious health risk.

Understanding tumors is essential in healthcare as it forms the basis for diagnosing and treating various conditions associated with cancer and other disorders. This definition aligns with the fundamental concepts of oncology and cellular biology, serving as a cornerstone for CNA training and patient care knowledge.