1 What is pancreatic cancer? This fact sheet provides an introduction to the function of the pancreas and pancreatic cancer. If you have any questions about pancreatic cancer, speak to our specialist nurses on our Support Line about any questions you have about pancreatic cancer. You can call them free on, or email What is the pancreas? The pancreas is a large gland situated deep in the abdomen (tummy) in between the stomach and the spine. It is about 15cm (6 inches) long and shaped a bit like a tadpole. The widest part is called the head, which lies close to the duodenum (small intestine) on the right side of the abdomen. The middle part is called the body and the thin part is the tail, which extends towards the left side of the body, next to the spleen. The pancreas is surrounded by a number of other large and important organs and blood vessels: the liver, stomach, spleen, intestines, left kidney and adrenal gland and gall bladder are all close to the pancreas the head of the pancreas is closely attached to the duodenum (the top part of the small intestines) the pancreatic duct empties into the duodenum the common bile duct, which carries bile from the liver, passes through the head of the pancreas to empty into the duodenum
2 the superior mesenteric artery and vein are close to the pancreas the blood supply to the liver, intestines, kidneys and lower part of the body can all be in contact with the pancreas. The pancreas and surrounding organs The pancreas and surrounding blood vessels
3 The pancreas is both an exocrine gland (produces enzymes) and an endocrine gland (produces hormones). It has two main functions. It makes pancreatic juices containing enzymes that help to break down food so that the body can absorb it. This digestive juice flows through a series of ducts (tubes) into the main pancreatic duct which runs the length of the pancreas. This duct transports the digestive juice into the duodenum. The exocrine cells that produce and transport enzymes are called acinar cells (see diagram below). The pancreas also produces a number of hormones that enter the body and flow around the bloodstream. The most important of these is insulin, which helps to regulate the amount of sugar in the blood. The endocrine cells that produce and secrete hormones are found mainly in the islets of Langerhans. Both of these functions can be affected if the pancreas isn t working properly. Pancreatic cancer most frequently occurs from the ducts within the pancreas (ductal adenocarcinoma) but can also occur from either the exocrine or endocrine cells. Depending on exactly where they begin to grow cancers behave differently and cause different symptoms.
4 What is pancreatic cancer? Pancreatic cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the pancreas grow out of control, forming a mass of tissue called a tumour. It can occur in the head, body or tail of the pancreas. Diagram showing the pancreas with a tumour. Within these two main groups there are different types of pancreatic cancer. However, the most important distinction is between exocrine and endocrine tumours. This is because they produce different symptoms, are diagnosed using different tests and are treated differently.
5 Pancreatic Cancer UK services c cancer. Our Support Line Our Support Line is a lifeline for thousands of patients, families and friends. Our specialist nurses understand the issues you might be facing. They are there for you, giving you personalised information and support that you need, when you need it. Call us free on (Monday to Friday from 10am-4pm), or email us at Our information We have the most up-to-date information on everything you need to know about pancreatic cancer on our website. We can help you every step of the way, from explaining your diagnosis and treatment options, to managing symptoms, and questions to ask at your appointments. Go to pancreaticcancer.org.uk/informationandsupport Download or order our publications, for free, at pancreaticcancer.org.uk/publications Our online community Our online community is a supportive place where everyone affected by pancreatic cancer can be there for each other. Find us now at forum.pancreaticcancer.org.uk Support groups We help set up local support groups in communities all across the UK. These groups provide the opportunity for sharing personal experiences, understanding and support. Check to see if there s a group near you at pancreaticcancer.org.uk/supportgroups
6 This fact sheet has been produced by the Support and Information Team at Pancreatic Cancer UK. It has been reviewed by health professionals and people affected by pancreatic cancer. References to the sources of information used to write this fact sheet and a list of health professionals who reviewed it are available on our website pancreaticcancer.org.uk Pancreatic Cancer UK makes every effort to make sure that our services provide up-to-date, unbiased and accurate information about pancreatic cancer. We hope that this information will add to the medical advice you have received and help you to take part in decisions related to your treatment and care. This information should not replace information and advice from your medical team please speak to your doctor, nurse or other members of your medical team about any questions or concerns. Give us your feedback We hope you have found this information helpful. We are always keen to improve our information, so let us know if you have any comments or suggestions. Email us at publications@pancreaticcancer.org.uk or write to the Information Manager at the address below. Pancreatic Cancer UK 2nd floor, Camelford House 87-90 Albert Embankment London SE1 7TW 020 3535 7090 enquiries@pancreaticcancer.org.uk pancreaticcancer.org.uk Pancreatic Cancer UK March 2015 Review date March 2017 Pancreatic Cancer UK is a charity registered in England and Wales (1112708) and in Scotland (SC046392)