Hormones regulate metabolism, respiration, growth, reproduction, sensory perception, and movement. Hormone imbalances are the underlying reason for a wide range of medical conditions.

Endocrinology focuses both on the hormones and the many glands and tissues that produce them.

Humans have over 50 different hormones. They can exist in very small amounts and still have a significant impact on bodily function and development.

Fast facts on endocrinology
Here are some key points about endocrinology. More information is in the main article.

• Endocrinology involves a wide range of systems within the human body.
• The endocrine tissues include the adrenal gland, hypothalamus, ovaries, and testes.
• There are three broad groups of endocrine disorders.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome is the most common endocrine disorder in women.

What is the endocrine system?
The human endocrine system consists of a number of glands, which release hormones to control many different functions.

When the hormones leave the glands, they enter the bloodstream and are transported to organs and tissues in every part of the body.