Smoking negatively impacts cardiovascular health by damaging blood vessels, reducing oxygen supply, and increasing blood pressure and heart rate. It contributes to the development of atherosclerosis, where arteries become clogged with fat deposits. This significantly raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Furthermore, smoking influences blood clotting and promotes inflammation, exacerbating existing heart conditions. Quitting smoking leads to immediate and long-term improvements in heart health, making it a critical step for those concerned about their cardiovascular system.