The endocrine system regulates all chemical reactions in
cells. The substances responsible for this regulation are
known as hormones. Hormones are produced by endocrine
glands. The major endocrine glands are the pituitary,
thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, and pancreas. Once a
hormone is released into the bloodstream, it travels to its
target tissue and produces a response. An awareness of
this system can help medical assistants be more effective
when teaching a patient about the advantages and disadvantages
of hormone replacement therapy.
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