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  3. What does the pancreas do?

What does the pancreas do?

The pancreas is a long, fish-shaped organ that sits behind the stomach on the left side of the body. It secretes a number of different substances needed to digest many different kinds of food into the small bowel.

The pancreas also makes insulin and releases it into the bloodstream as needed. All the body’s cells need insulin in order to use the sugar (glucose) from our food.

Top Stories

Above: Dr. David Palma
Research & Innovation

Through research, Dr. Palma is improving radiation therapy for cancer patients

Transforming care for patients with rare diseases
‘Junk DNA’ could hold clues to how colorectal cancer arises, study suggests
Celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science: Meet Frederikke Larsen, whose research is helping shape our understanding of cancer cells
Kathy McGuire talks with an individual while standing at the volunteer desk in the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre
LHSC News

A place to belong: Finding community and connection through volunteerism

Sustainability under the microscope: LHSC pathologist recognized with Green Lab Award
Oral Chemotherapy Pharmacists: Supporting patients with complex medication regimens
Embedding traditional healing in mental health care
Sarah Marshall
Donor Impact

A Journey of Tomorrows

Donor generosity delivers comfort through handmade heart pillows for cardiac surgery patients
Jessica's Story: Why Women's Heart Health Matters
Cancer Survivor Celebrates Birthday By Covering Patients’ Parking
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