Which type of tumor is characterized as non-cancerous and not progressive?

The type of tumor that is characterized as non-cancerous and not progressive is benign. Benign tumors are growths that do not invade surrounding tissues or metastasize to other parts of the body. They typically grow slowly and are often surrounded by a fibrous capsule, which makes them easier to remove surgically if necessary. Unlike malignant tumors, which are cancerous and can spread, benign tumors generally do not pose a significant health risk to the affected individual, unless they exert pressure on surrounding structures or organs.

Other terms provided, such as malignant and metastatic, refer to cancerous conditions that involve the potential for growth and spread. Malignant tumors are aggressive and can invade local tissues and spread to distant sites through metastasis. Carcinogenic generally refers to substances or agents that can lead to cancer formation but does not describe a type of tumor. Thus, identifying benign as the correct answer highlights the distinctive characteristics that separate non-cancerous tumors from their malignant counterparts.