Final answer:
Benign outcomes should be interpreted with caution due to risks of false positives and the potential for missed detection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Interpreting "benign" outcomes with caution is crucial due to two main reasons:
- Risks of false positives: In certain medical tests, a benign outcome may not always rule out the presence of a disease or condition. False positives can lead to unnecessary anxiety and invasive follow-up procedures, potentially causing harm and additional costs.
- Potential for missed detection: Assuming an outcome is benign without considering other possibilities can result in missed detection of an underlying condition. This delay in diagnosis can negatively impact treatment options and outcomes.