a large elongated exocrine gland located behind the stomach; secretes pancreatic juice and insulin
"After developing diabetes, the doctor explained that his pancreas was no longer producing enough insulin to regulate his blood sugar levels."
A gland near the stomach which secretes a fluid into the duodenum to help with food digestion. The fluid contains protease, carbohydrase and lipase, which breaks down larger molecules into smaller pieces. The pancreas also produces the hormones insulin and glucagon which regulate blood sugar. These hormones are released into the cardiovascular system.
"After my doctor explained that his pancreas was failing to produce enough insulin and digestive enzymes, he finally understood why both his blood sugar levels and digestion had been so problematic."
The word "pancreas" comes from the Latin pancreas, which was borrowed from Ancient Greek. The Greek term combines words meaning "all" and "flesh," referring to the organ's composition.