CHAPTER IV

Human Anatomy and Physiology

Figure 1
 The cardiovascular system, also called the circulatory system, carries out the function of

transporting blood, oxygen, nutrients, and waste products to all parts of the body. It consists of

the heart, blood vessels, and blood. The heart, which is a muscular organ, is responsible for

pumping blood to the body's tissues via a network of blood vessels. Studies have revealed that

the heart can pump an average of 2,000 gallons of blood per day, which is equivalent to the

volume of a small swimming pool. It is a highly efficient organ with a resting heart rate of about

60 to 100 beats per minute. During stressful situations or exercise, the heart can increase its

pumping rate to meet the body's demands.

Blood vessels are categorized into three types: arteries, veins, and capillaries. Arteries convey

oxygenated blood from the heart to the body's tissues, while veins transport deoxygenated blood

from the body's tissues back to the heart. Capillaries are tiny blood vessels that facilitate the

exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between the blood and the body's tissues. The

human body has about 60,000 miles of blood vessels, which is equivalent to twice the

circumference of the Earth's equator. Blood, a fluid that moves throughout the body, transports

oxygen, nutrients, and waste products. It is made up of plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells,

and platelets. Plasma is the liquid part of blood and contains proteins such as antibodies, clotting

factors, and albumin. Red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, transport oxygen to the body's

tissues. White blood cells, or leukocytes, are a component of the immune system and help fight

infections. Platelets, or thrombocytes, play a critical role in blood clotting.

The circulatory system is instrumental in maintaining body temperature, pH, and fluid balance,

and keeping the body in a state of homeostasis. Research shows that keeping the circulatory

system healthy is vital for overall health and longevity. According to the World Health

Organization, cardiovascular diseases are the primary cause of death globally, resulting in

approximately 17.9 million deaths in 2019.

In conclusion, the cardiovascular system is a crucial aspect of the human body, responsible for

the transport of blood, oxygen, nutrients, and waste products to various body parts. Maintaining a

healthy circulatory system is essential for overall health and well-being.that maintaining a

healthy circulatory system is crucial for overall health and longevity.