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The pituitary gland is often referred to as the "master gland" of the endocrine system due to its crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including growth. It releases growth hormone (GH), which stimulates growth in tissues and bones throughout the body. This hormone is vital during childhood and adolescence when development is most pronounced.

The pituitary gland also plays a role in regulating other hormones that impact growth indirectly, such as those produced by the thyroid gland. In this way, the pituitary gland serves as a key player in the complex hormone feedback system that governs growth and development, making it the primary gland associated with this function.

In contrast, the thyroid gland primarily regulates metabolism and energy levels, the adrenal gland is mainly involved in stress response and metabolism, and the pancreas is crucial for insulin production and blood sugar regulation. These glands do have important functions, but they do not directly control body growth as the pituitary gland does.