Which of the following systems includes the heart and blood vessels?

The cardiovascular system is responsible for transporting blood throughout the body, which is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to cells and removing waste products. This system includes the heart, which pumps blood, and a vast network of blood vessels, including arteries, veins, and capillaries, that facilitate the circulation. It plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis, regulating temperature, and supporting immune function by distributing hormones and defensive cells.

In contrast, the nervous system focuses on transmitting signals throughout the body for coordination and response to stimuli, the integumentary system serves as the body's protective barrier and includes the skin, hair, and nails, and the muscular system is responsible for movement and support through muscle contraction. Each of these systems has distinct functions that are vital for overall health, but it is the cardiovascular system that specifically encompasses the heart and blood vessels.