universal donor A person with type O positive blood; type O RBC do not have any
antigens on their membranes and so would not cause an immune reaction in the body
of a recipient.
universal recipient A person with type AB positive blood; the blood plasma of AB blood
does not contain any anti-A or anti-B antibodies. People with type AB blood can
receive any ABO blood type.
white blood cells Nucleated blood cells that are usually larger than red blood cells; de-
fend the body against infection by bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
Points to Consider
- Why is the blood in veins not under pressure?
- How can your diet affect the cardiovascular system?
18.4 Lesson 18.4: Health of the Cardiovascular System
Lesson Objectives
- Outline the cause of blood pressure in arteries.
- Identify the healthy range for blood pressure.
- Describe three types of cardiovascular disease.
- Identify things you can do to avoid cardiovascular disease.
Check Your Understanding
- What is the role of the cardiovascular system?
Introduction
The health of your whole body depends on the good health of your cardiovascular system.
The health of the cardiovascular system (CV system) can be overlooked because damage
to the CV system often does not have any symptoms. In this lesson you will learn about
common health problems with the CV system, and how you can work toward having a
healthy CV system.