I have been a smoker for over 10 years now and have seen the changes in the UK’s cigarette industry firsthand. From the increasing prices, to the constant warnings about the health risks, cigarettes have become a controversial and often debated topic in our society. In this article, I will share my thoughts and experiences on cigarettes in the UK, from their availability to the impact they have on our health and economy.
Availability and Regulations
As a smoker, one of the first things I notice when traveling abroad is the difference in cigarette availability. In some countries, it seems like every corner store and gas station sells cigarettes without much restriction. However, in the UK, purchasing cigarettes is not as easy as it used to be. The government has implemented various regulations in an effort to reduce tobacco consumption and protect citizens’ health.
One of the most noticeable changes in cigarette availability is the ban on vending machines in England and Wales. These machines made it easy for underage individuals to access cigarettes, and their removal has been deemed a success in preventing young people from smoking. Additionally, the legal age for purchasing tobacco was increased from 16 to 18 in 2007. This has made it harder for underage individuals to get their hands on cigarettes, and has also sent a message that smoking is only for adults.
Another regulation that has impacted cigarette availability is the display ban in shops. Cigarettes and other tobacco products are now hidden from view behind shutters or in closed cabinets. This has been done to reduce the visual appeal of cigarettes, especially to children and young adults. Although it may seem like a small change, it has made a noticeable difference in the way cigarettes are marketed and perceived.
Price Increase and Its Impact on Consumers
One of the biggest deterrents for smokers in the UK is the constant increase in tobacco prices. In the last decade, the price of cigarettes has increased drastically, almost doubling from what it used to be. As a regular smoker, this has had a significant impact on my finances. I now spend almost double the amount on cigarettes than I used to before.
The UK government justifies this price increase as a way to discourage and reduce smoking rates, especially among the youth. However, it’s not just smokers who are feeling the impact of these price hikes. Many small businesses, such as corner shops and newsagents, have also been affected as cigarette sales are a significant source of their income. This has led to some tensions between the government and small business owners, who feel that they are being unfairly targeted.
Health Risks and Anti-Smoking Campaigns
As a smoker, I am fully aware of the health risks associated with cigarettes. The constant warnings on cigarette packs, such as “smoking kills” and graphic images of diseased lungs, serve as a reminder that I am putting my health at risk every time I light up. However, it’s not just the physical health risks that I am concerned about.
The UK government has been running anti-smoking campaigns for many years now, and they seem to be working. Smoking rates have significantly decreased over the years, and more and more people are aware of the dangers of tobacco consumption. This has led to a change in societal attitudes towards smoking, with smokers often being stigmatized and judged for their habit.
Smoking also has a significant impact on our healthcare system. According to the NHS, smoking is the leading preventable cause of death in the UK, with over 78,000 deaths per year. This puts a huge strain on the NHS, and the costs of treating smoking-related illnesses are estimated to be around £2 billion per year. This is not just a cost to the government, but also to taxpayers and the economy as a whole.
My Personal Perspective
As a smoker, I have often been asked why I continue to smoke despite the well-known health risks and increasing prices. The truth is, I am addicted to nicotine, and quitting is not as easy as some people make it out to be. However, I do believe that the government’s efforts to reduce tobacco consumption are necessary and commendable.
I believe that there needs to be a balance between discouraging smoking and respecting personal choices. While I understand the importance of regulations and anti-smoking campaigns, I also believe that adults should have the right to make their own decisions, even if it means consuming a product that is harmful to their health.
In Conclusion
Cigarettes in the UK have come a long way, and there have been significant changes in their availability, regulations, and perception over the years. The constant increase in prices, the strict regulations, and the health risks associated with smoking have all contributed to a decline in smoking rates. While the government’s efforts to reduce tobacco consumption are necessary, they also have a significant impact on consumers and small businesses. As a smoker, I believe that there should be a balance between these efforts and respecting personal choices.