What effect do endocrine disruptor chemicals typically have?

Endocrine disruptor chemicals are known to interfere with the normal functioning of hormones in the body. These chemicals can mimic, block, or otherwise interfere with the endocrine (hormonal) system, which is crucial for regulating numerous physiological processes. By impacting hormone activity, endocrine disruptors can significantly affect growth, metabolism, and reproductive functions.

For example, exposure to these chemicals during critical periods such as development can lead to developmental problems, altered metabolic processes, and reproductive disorders in both animals and humans. This understanding of their impact on growth, metabolism, and reproduction aligns closely with the broad range of hormonal regulatory functions in these areas, making this choice the most accurate representation of the typical effects of endocrine disruptors.

The other options pertain to systems that are not primarily influenced by hormones. Although some indirect effects may occur, they do not capture the core impact of endocrine disruptors as effectively as the choice focused on growth, metabolism, and reproduction.