Cardiovascular System: Structure And Function

The cardiovascular system includes the blood, the blood vessels, the heart, and the lymphatic system. It is responsible for carrying nutrients, hormones, and other substances to the body tissues; carrying oxygen to the rest of the body and removing waste products, such as carbon dioxide; producing the cells of the immune system that help fight infections; and helping maintain a balance of body fluids and a normal body temperature. Aging is accompanied by changes in the cardiovascular system, which can lead to impaired heart filling and contraction, decreased elasticity of the blood vessels, and decreased production of red and white blood cells.