A health team who treat pancreas issues invited patients and their loved ones to a special event to raise awareness.
Patients treated for issues with their pancreas came along to the education day at the University Hospital of North Tees.
The pancreas, an organ that sits behind the stomach in the body, produces enzymes (to break down and digest food) and hormones (like insulin and glucagon) to control blood sugar levels.
Pancreatitis is a condition where the pancreas becomes swollen and inflamed.
Most people go on to feel better after a while – but for some it can lead to long term damage including scarring and a build up of calcium in body tissues.
Some patients may develop serious life threatening complications.
The educational event included information about the function of the pancreas, causes and treatment, diabetes, smoking, alcohol and the role of research.
The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Guts UK charity, who support patients with this condition.
Sharing expertise and learning from patients
Professor Vikramjit Mitra, consultant gastroenterologist, said: “The day was a fantastic opportunity for our healthcare team to share their knowledge and expertise with patients and their relatives.
“It was an opportunity to raise awareness of some of the preventable causes, including alcohol and smoking and the support out there in the hospital and the community.”
“For many, this condition is both treatable and preventable if people have the right information, support and treatment.
“I would like to thank all of our staff who shared their expertise with our patients. I would also like to thank all of our patients and their loved ones who came along and shared their own experiences – this has helped us to understand some of the challenges they face to manage their condition and allow us to work on these areas going forward.”