What is the leading cause of preventable death related to cardiovascular disease?

Cigarette smoking is recognized as the leading cause of preventable death related to cardiovascular disease. This is largely due to the toxic substances found in cigarette smoke that lead to damage of blood vessels, increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and ultimately, a higher risk of developing atherosclerosis. Smoking also contributes significantly to the development of other cardiovascular risk factors, including reduced levels of beneficial HDL cholesterol and increased risks of thrombosis. The cumulative effects of these changes substantially increase the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events.

While obesity, high cholesterol, and hypertension are also significant risk factors for cardiovascular disease, they are often interconnected with smoking. For instance, smoking can exacerbate obesity-related complications and may also hinder weight loss efforts, potentially leading to higher cholesterol and blood pressure levels. However, the direct impact of cigarette smoking on cardiovascular mortality is more pronounced, making it the primary concern in terms of preventable deaths due to cardiovascular issues. Addressing smoking cessation is thus a crucial step in reducing cardiovascular disease mortality rates.