Patient Education Cancer of the Pancreas: A Care Guide | Page 5

The Pancreas
The pancreas also makes pancreatic
juices. The juices contain enzymes
that help break down and absorb
food, especially fats and vitamins.
The enzymes may need to be
replaced if you have surgery involving
the pancreas. This may be temporary
or permanent.
The pancreas is a gland about
6 inches long that is located deep in
the abdomen, between the stomach
and the spine.
The liver, intestines, and other organs
surround the pancreas, making it hard
to view on normal tests or scans.
The pancreas has two main functions
– producing hormones and insulin.
Insulin is the most important.
These hormones enter the
bloodstream and travel throughout the
body. They help the body use or store
the energy that comes from food.
Insulin helps regulate blood sugar
levels.
Head of pancreas
Pancreas
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