Because we do not know what causes most salivary gland cancers, it is not possible to recommend ways to prevent them. Avoiding certain risk factors (tobacco, excessive alcohol use, unhealthy diets) may slightly lower the likelihood of developing salivary gland cancer, although this is not certain. However, avoiding these factors is known to reduce the risk of other, more common cancers, as well as many other diseases.

People who work with radioactive substances, silica dust, and nickel alloy dust should take precautions to protect themselves against exposure to these materials.

These precautions may lower a person's risk of developing salivary gland cancer.

Last Medical Review: 02/10/2009
Last Revised: 02/10/2009