Metastasis refers to which aspect of tumor behavior?

Metastasis specifically describes the process by which cancer cells spread from the original site of the tumor to other parts of the body, establishing secondary tumors. This is a crucial aspect of tumor behavior, as it significantly affects the prognosis and treatment options for cancer patients.

Understanding metastasis goes beyond just recognizing that it involves spreading; it also highlights the aggressive nature of certain cancers that can invade other tissues and organs, complicating treatment. Each type of cancer has unique patterns of metastasis, which is influential in determining survival rates and therapeutic strategies.

The other aspects mentioned in the choices involve different characteristics of tumors. The size of a tumor pertains to its dimensions, while the place involves its original location in the body. The growth of a tumor deals with how rapidly it expands but does not convey the significant concern of cancer spreading to new sites, which is the essence of metastasis.