The endocrine system is a group of glands distributed throughout the human body. This group of glands secretes substances called hormones. These hormones flow into the bloodstream (Shier, Butler & Lewis, 2009). The endocrine system does not have a single anatomical location. It is dispersed throughout the human body. The ultimate goal of this system is to control, regulate and coordinate the functioning of the human body (p.291). Certain bodily functions can be activated or inhibited by hormones secreted in very small amounts. Hormone-related diseases can be due to hyper-secretion or hypo-secretion. Hormones secreted by endocrine glands regulate the growth, development, and function of many tissues and coordinate the body's metabolic processes (pp. 294-296). Insufficient secretion of hormones can cause disorders in the body, which can sometimes have serious consequences on health. The main endocrine glands are the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, adrenal glands, pancreas, pineal gland, thymus and reproductive glands (Shier et al., 2009). The pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain and secretes hormones that control the functioning of the major endocrine glands (pp. 295-299). In response to an excess or deficiency of pituitary hormones, the glands affected by these hormones can cause an excess or deficiency of their own hormones. On the other hand, the pituitary acts on stimulating the thyroid gland to secrete hormones that regulate metabolism, energy and the activity of the nervous system (p. 295). The thyroid is a small gland located in the neck, in front of the body. trachea and under the larynx. Thyroid hormones control metabolism, which is the body's ability to burn...... middle of paper ...... the docrine system, immune system, and nervous system fail to function progressively. This progressive failure can occur at different times, leading to imbalances between them and an increased risk of disease for older people. Thyroid functions decline with aging and thyroid disorders are more common in older people. For example, hypothyroidism is associated with accelerated aging (Haywood and Getchell, p.81, 2009). In conclusion, the endocrine system maintains homeostasis in the human body through its contribution to each of the functions involved. There are lifestyle options that help ensure a healthy endocrine system and thus avoid developing type 2 diabetes mellitus, such as engaging in daily physical exercise and maintaining healthy eating habits. Good endocrine health improves performance in activities of daily living, work, leisure and social participation.