Light micrograph of a section through a human pancreas showing familial pancreatic cancer (FPC). The pancreas is a pear-shaped gland found in the abdomen between the stomach and the spine. The gland makes enzymes that help the body digest food. It also makes hormones, such as insulin, that help control blood sugar. FPC is a term to describe families with a high rate of pancreatic cancer. In most cases, pancreatic cancer doesn't run in families. However, a small number of rare genetic conditions are linked to an increased risk of the disease.