Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide. Cigarette smoking is a strong risk factor for the development of this cancer. Vasomotor function is damaged due to harmful cigarette smoke including nicotine, carbon monoxide, and oxidants full of toxic substances. It may also promote inflammation, change lipid profiles, and hasten the progression of cardiovascular disease. The most important steps to be taken are enhancing family-based interventions, school education, and social support systems essential for preventing smoking initiation and cessation. This work is critical to address the global toll of smoking-related heart disease if we are ever going to achieve better population health outcomes. In reviewing the effects of smoking on cardiovascular diseases, this review reveals its disastrous consequences which could accelerate atherosclerosis, contribute to raised heart rate and blood pressure, and faulty clot formation predisposing patients to myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke. The review also detailed the health benefits of education to quit smoking, which should ultimately help stave off CVD.
