The pancreas is a large gland behind your stomach and next to your small intestine. The pancreas releases powerful digestive enzymes into your small intestine to help you digest food. It also releases insulin and glucagon into your bloodstream. These hormones help your body control how it uses food for energy. Your pancreas can be damaged when digestive enzymes begin working before your pancreas releases them.

The pancreas can be damaged by several diseases and conditions. These include: