Updated June 10, 2015.

Definition:

The pancreas is an organ that lies behind the stomach and in front of the spine. The pancreas is responsible for producing hormones like insulin and glucagon, which help control our blood sugar levels. The pancreas also produces enzymes that help break down protein and carbohydrates during digestion.

The pancreas can be subject to malignant conditions; such cases are known as cancer of the pancreas or pancreatic cancer.