How does smoking increase the risk of cardiovascular disease?

Smoking increases the risk of heart disease by promoting the development of atherosclerosis in peripheral blood vessels, which can lead to hypertension and increased risk of stroke. Tobacco smoke contains nicotine, which increases heart rate and blood pressure. Smoking increases the likelihood of blood clot, increasing risk of heart attack. Nicotine may lead to arrhythmias and potentially to sudden cardiac death. Smoking increases the risk of atherosclerosis by elevating blood cholesterol levels and promoting fat deposits in arterial walls.