https://magazine.medlineplus.gov//images/uploads/main_images/PancreasMain.jpg The pancreas is a gland behind your stomach and in front of your spine. It produces enzymes that help break down food and hormones that control blood sugar levels. Pancreatic cancer usually begins in these cells. It forms when cells grow out of control and create a tumor. Tumors may be malignant (cancerous) or benign (not cancerous). Two kinds of pancreatic cancer About 95% of pancreatic cancers begin in the cells that produce digestive enzymes. This is known as exocrine pancreatic cancer. Only about 5% of pancreatic cancers begin in the cells that produce hormones. These are known as endocrine pancreatic cancer.