Relax, It Isn’t Cancer: Here’s All You Need to Know About Benign Tumours

For most people, tumours are usually associated with the dreaded ‘C’ word. But not all tumours turn out to be cancerous. Benign tumours are different from malignant tumours in a number of ways. It is important to learn about the differences between the two so that you can make informed decisions about your health without any fears.

Benign tumours are characterised by their confinement to their original site and do not invade surrounding areas or spread to other parts of the body. They generally grow at a slow rate and have well-defined edges.

While benign tumours are typically not a significant concern, they can grow large enough to exert pressure on nearby structures, potentially resulting in pain or other health issues.

Here are some of the most common types:

1. Adenomas

These harmless tumours pop up in glands (thyroid or pituitary). They can be harmless until they are small or not actively secreting hormones.

2. Fibromas

These small, harmless lumps are often found in the skin and muscles.

3. Lipomas

These are the most common benign tumours and are made of fat cells. Lipomas are usually squishy and soft, like a marshmallow that's taken up residence under your skin.

4. Hemangiomas

These are benign tumours of blood vessels. They are often seen in babies and can look like red or purple marks on the skin. While they might sound alarming, most hemangiomas go away on their own as the child grows.

5. Meningiomas

These tumours grow gradually within the meninges, which are the protective layers encasing the brain and spinal cord. They can cause headaches or vision problems and need close monitoring.

If you’re wondering why these benign tumours decide to crash the party, the reasons can be varied:

• Genetic factors

Sometimes, it’s all about your genetic blueprint. If your family has a history of benign tumours, you might be more likely to get one yourself. It’s a bit like inheriting your uncle’s collection of quirky socks — sometimes, you just get what’s passed down.

• Hormonal changes

Hormones can play a role in the development of certain benign tumours. Think of hormones as the pushy stage managers who sometimes encourage benign tumours to take the spotlight.

• Age

Benign tumours can become more common as you age. It’s like finding surprises in the attic as you get older. 

• Environmental factors

Certain environmental and lifestyle factors can influence tumour development, such as exposure to specific chemicals or radiation.

• Watchful waiting

The best approach is to keep an eye on the tumour. If it’s not causing problems, your doctor might suggest simply monitoring it over time. It’s like letting that overly enthusiastic guest stay until they decide it’s time to leave.

• Surgical removal

If the tumour starts causing problems, surgery is an option. This is like showing the guest to the door — effective but not always necessary if they’re behaving themselves.

• Medication

Medication might help shrink the tumour or manage benign tumour symptoms, particularly if it’s causing discomfort or affecting hormone levels. 

The good news is that benign tumours are generally not life-threatening. Most people with benign tumours lead normal, healthy lives, often without even knowing they have one. While benign tumours deserve attention, they’re usually more about monitoring than panicking.

Benign tumours stay localised and don’t spread to other parts of the body, making them generally less dangerous and easier to manage. In contrast, malignant tumours are aggressive, invade surrounding tissues, and can spread to other organs, requiring more intensive treatment.

Benign tumours themselves do not turn into cancer; they remain non-cancerous and localised. Some benign tumours can become problematic if they grow large, but they don’t transform into malignant tumours.

Benign tumours are typically diagnosed through a series of tests, which help visualise their size and location.

Treatment options for benign tumours often include monitoring their growth with regular check-ups if they’re not causing other symptoms. Surgical removal may also be recommended by the doctor if needed.

Benign tumours are usually removed if they cause symptoms, interfere with bodily functions, or lead to cosmetic concerns.