The Pancreas
Anatomy

Below the stomach, resting to the right of the duodenum and extending toward the spleen, lies the pancreas.

The pancreas makes and secretes substances internally. These secretions, called endocrine secretions, are absorbed by tiny capillaries and distributed throughout the body, in the blood. The pancreas also makes substances that it secretes outside the gland, through ducts. These secretions are called exocrine secretions.

Functions
Endocrine functions and insulin. Groups of cells scattered throughout the pancreas produce insulin -- a hormone that influences the making of proteins and certain fats, storage of certain fats, and the body's use of sugar (glucose). The most commonly known disease associated with abnormal production of insulin and low blood sugar is diabetes.

Exocrine functions and digestion. The pancreas produces digestive juices (enzymes), including amylase and lipase. These enzymes are emptied from the pancreas into the small intestine through tubes called the pancreatic ducts.