The pancreas is a glandular organ located in the abdomen, behind the stomach. It is part of both the digestive and endocrine systems. As a digestive organ, it secretes digestive enzymes and bicarbonate into the small intestine to help break down food. As an endocrine organ, it secretes hormones such as insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream to regulate blood sugar levels.
The pancreas plays a critical role in maintaining the body’s metabolic balance and overall health. Dysfunction of the pancreas can lead to serious health conditions such as diabetes, pancreatic cancer, and pancreatitis.