What effect does cigarette smoking have on the risk of heart disease?

Cigarette smoking significantly increases the risk of heart disease due to several harmful effects on the cardiovascular system. Tobacco smoke contains a multitude of toxic substances that can damage the lining of blood vessels, promote the buildup of plaque in the arteries, and lead to atherosclerosis—a condition that narrows and hardens the arteries. This can ultimately restrict blood flow and increase the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes.

Additionally, smoking raises blood pressure, reduces oxygen levels in the blood, and promotes blood clotting, all of which further elevate the risk of cardiovascular events. The harmful effects are not limited to long-term smokers; even short-term smoking can have immediate negative impacts on heart health. Therefore, the assertion that smoking increases the risk of heart disease reflects a well-established understanding of the association between tobacco use and cardiovascular problems.