Which statement best describes the spread of malignant cancer cells compared with benign cells?

• A. Malignant cells spread to distant sites
• B. Benign cells spread more rapidly
• C. Malignant cells have a smaller rate of growth
• D. Benign cells cause death more often

Answer: (A)

Spread to distant sites is what distinguishes malignant cancer cells. Malignant cells can break away from the original tumor, invade surrounding tissues, enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system, and establish new tumors in distant organs—this process is called metastasis. Benign cells remain localized, forming a single mass that does not invade nearby tissue or spread to other parts of the body, so they’re usually not life-threatening from spread alone. Growth rate can vary, and malignant tumors are not defined by a smaller growth rate; they’re defined by their ability to invade and metastasize.