AEMCA Practice Exam

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What is the role of parathyroid hormone?

To decrease blood calcium levels
To increase blood calcium levels
To regulate blood sugar levels
To stimulate growth hormone release

The correct answer is: To increase blood calcium levels

Parathyroid hormone plays a critical role in regulating calcium levels in the bloodstream. Its primary function is to increase blood calcium levels when they drop too low, which is essential for maintaining several physiological functions. When parathyroid hormone is released, it acts on bones, kidneys, and the intestines to enhance calcium absorption and release. In bones, it stimulates the activity of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for breaking down bone tissue, which releases calcium into the bloodstream. In the kidneys, parathyroid hormone increases the reabsorption of calcium, preventing its excretion in urine, and it promotes the conversion of vitamin D to its active form, which enhances intestinal absorption of calcium from food. This regulatory mechanism is crucial because calcium is vital for nerve function, muscle contraction, and overall cellular processes. Thus, the correct answer indicates the role of parathyroid hormone in elevating blood calcium levels, ensuring that the body's physiological needs are met effectively.