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Head & Neck Oncology Program

Salivary Gland Cancer

What Is Salivary Gland Cancer?

Cancer of the salivary gland is a disease in which cancerous cells grow in the tissues of the salivary glands. The salivary glands function as part of the digestive system by producing saliva, a fluid released in the mouth that helps dissolve foods. Saliva also helps keep the mouth clean and moist.

The major salivary glands are in the face -- under the tongue, on the sides of the face in front of the ears, and under the jawbone. Several other salivary glands are located in the upper digestive tract.

This page was last updated on: May 14, 2009.

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