The Inside Story on Blood Pressure - International Association of ...

What does it mean?
Cardiovascular made simple.
<strong>The</strong> term cardiovascular system is not as
complicated as it sounds.
It is the medical term for your heart (cardio) and
blood vessels (vascular). This system is made up
of your heart and blood vessels, including arteries,
veins, and capillaries. Its job is to transport oxygenand
nutrient-rich blood from your heart to every
part of your body and remove waste that your body
does not need, such as carbon dioxide.
the heart
<strong>The</strong> heart works as a pump to move
blood through the body.
What’s going on?
Blood is carried from the heart to all parts of the body in
vessels called arteries. Blood pressure is created by the
force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as
it circulates and the force of the arteries as they resist the
blood flow.
DID YOU KNOW?
• A half hour of moderate
intensity activity 5 times
a week—such as jogging,
dancing, and team sports—
can have health benefits*
* Always talk to your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
Underwritten by Novartis
© 2005 ANATOMICAL TRAVELOGUE INC.
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