2.47 understand the biological consequences of smoking in relation to the lungs and the circulatory system, including coronary heart disease

Lungs:

Tar (and heat) destroy cilia leading to a build up of mucus, resulting in coughing. Smoking breaks down the walls of alveoli, reducing surface area (also known as emphysema). Smoking contains carcinogenic substances and may cause mutations.

Effects on the heart:

-        chemicals from smoking binds irreversibly to haemoglobin meaning there is less oxygen available.

-        The heart will have to pump harder and faster to supply the body with enough oxygen.

-        Blood vessels become damaged because of high blood pressure and plaque may build up in the blood vessels.

-        The build up of fat in the coronary arteries may cause a heart attack.

-        Nicotine causes heart rate to increase