Can benign tumors become cancerous?

If needed, adenomas can often be removed with surgery. Although not common, this type of tumor can become malignant. In the colon, less than 1 out of every 10 adenomas become cancerous. Fibromas (or fibroids) are tumors of fibrous or connective tissue that can grow in any organ. Fibroids commonly grow in the uterus. read more

Although most benign tumors are not life-threatening, many types of benign tumors have the potential to become cancerous through a process known as tumour progression. For this reason and other possible negative health effects, some benign tumors are removed by surgery. read more

Not all tumors, cancerous or benign, have symptoms. Depending on the tumor’s location, numerous symptoms could affect the function of important organs or the senses. For example, if you have a benign brain tumor, you may experience headaches, vision trouble, and fuzzy memory. read more