Identification

• According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, the pancreas is located in the abdomen and lies between the stomach and spine.
  
  

Function

• The pancreas breaks down protein, carbohydrates and fats with its own digestive juices.
  
  

Features

• Hormones from the pancreas affect the level of sugar in a person's blood. The pancreas also contains cells that regulate the secretion of insulin.
  
  

Problems

• Pancreatitis is the most common pancreatic problem, and although it can be painful, it can be treated with painkillers and antibiotics. Pancreatic cancer, although uncommon, is usually fatal because often tumors are detected late due the pancreas' location deep in the abdomen.
  
  

Warning

• If you suspect that you have pancreatitis, see your doctor immediately. Symptoms include pain in the upper middle abdomen, nausea and pain in the mid-back.