Salivary gland cancer
Survival depends on different factors. So no one can tell you exactly how long you will live.
Doctors usually work out the outlook for a certain disease by looking at large groups of people. Because this cancer is less common, survival is harder to estimate than for other, more common cancers.
Some of the statistics have to be based on a small number of people. Remember, they can't tell you what will happen in your individual case.
Your doctor can give you more information about your own outlook ( ).
There are no UK wide statistics available for salivary gland cancer survival by stage.
The statistics below come from America. They come from the National Cancer Institute's SEER programme. They are for people diagnosed with salivary gland cancer between 2011 and 2017. Please be aware that these figures might not be a true picture of survival in the UK. This is due to differences in American health care systems, data collection and the population.
The American statistics are split into 3 stage groups – localised, regional and distant cancers. In the UK, your doctor might not use these terms. Instead, they might describe your cancer as a number stage (stage 1 to 4). The following descriptions are a guide to help you understand whether your cancer is localised, regional or distant. This isn’t straight forward and will depend on your individual situation. Talk to your specialist if you are unsure which group you are in.
There are 3 groups:
Localised cancers haven’t spread into nearby lymph nodes.
Regional cancers have spread to nearby lymph nodes. Or there is advanced local spread into nearby structures (for example T4 tumours).
Distant cancers have spread to other parts of the body, away from the salivary gland.
Almost 95 out of 100 people (almost 95%) survive their cancer for 5 years or more after diagnosis.
65 out of 100 people (65%) survive their cancer for 5 years or more after diagnosis.
Around 35 out of 100 people (around 35%) survive their cancer for 5 years or more after diagnosis.
No UK-wide statistics are available for salivary cancer survival in the UK.
Overall, for all people with salivary gland cancer in England:
around 85 out of 100 people (around 85%) survive their cancer for 1 year or more
around 65 out of 100 people (around 65%) survive their cancer for 5 years or more
Your outcome depends on the stage of the cancer when it was diagnosed. This means how big it is and whether it has spread.
Survival is also affected by the site of the cancer.
The term 5 year survival doesn't mean you will only live for 5 years. It relates to the number of people who live 5 years or more after their diagnosis of cancer. Many people live much longer than 5 years.
Some of the statistics on this page are for relative survival. Relative survival takes into account that some people will die of causes other than cancer.
This gives a more accurate picture of cancer survival. Relative survival statistics are used for survival by stage for major salivary gland cancer, and for survival of all types and stages of salivary cancer.
Last reviewed: 30 Mar 2023
Next review due: 30 Mar 2026
The type of salivary gland cancer means the type of cell the cancer started in. Mucoepidermoid carcinomas are the most common type of salivary gland cancer.
The most common symptom of salivary gland cancer is a swelling on the side of the face, just in front of the ear or under the jawbone.
You usually start by seeing your GP. Depending on your symptoms, they might refer you for tests or to see a specialist.
Treatment for salivary gland cancer depends on where the cancer is, the size, whether it has spread anywhere else and your health.
Getting practical and emotional support can help you to cope with a diagnosis of salivary gland cancer. It can also help you with life during and after treatment.
Salivary gland cancer can start in any of the glands that make spit (saliva). As well as 3 major pairs of salivary glands we have over 600 smaller, minor salivary glands throughout the lining of the mouth and throat.
About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education
Search our clinical trials database for all cancer trials and studies recruiting in the UK.
Connect with other people affected by cancer and share your experiences.
Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.
