As a non-smoker, living in the UK, I have always been curious about the widespread use and impact of cigarettes in this country. From the iconic images of the Beatles smoking and the comedy duo of Laurel and Hardy with a cigarette in their mouths, to the controversial cigarette advertising campaigns that have been banned in recent years, cigarettes have always been a part of British culture.
Growing up, I was always warned about the dangers of smoking. The shocking images on cigarette packs, the health education classes in school, and the constant reminder from my parents to never pick up a cigarette, all made me aware of the risks associated with smoking. However, despite all the information and warnings, cigarettes remain a widely used and accepted product in the UK.
Statistics show that around 14% of adults in the UK smoke, with a higher percentage among the vulnerable and disadvantaged groups. This means that nearly 7 million people in the UK are still choosing to light up and inhale toxic chemicals into their bodies on a daily basis.
One of the most surprising aspects of cigarettes in the UK is the cost. With the increasing awareness and health concerns, one would assume that the high price tag on cigarettes would make people think twice before purchasing them. However, this hasn’t seemed to discourage smokers. A pack of 20 cigarettes can cost anywhere from £10 to £14, depending on the brand and location. This puts the UK as one of the most expensive places to buy cigarettes in the world. Despite this, cigarettes continue to be a multi-billion dollar industry in the country.
One of the reasons for the high prices is the taxes imposed by the government. In fact, over 50% of the cost of a pack of cigarettes is due to taxes. The government has been using this tactic as a way to discourage smoking, as well as to help cover the costs of treating smoking-related illnesses in the country.
However, these high prices have also given rise to a black market for cigarettes. Smugglers and counterfeiters have found ways to import and produce cheaper cigarettes, often selling them for half the price of legally purchased cigarettes. This not only results in a loss of revenue for the government but also poses a health risk for consumers who may be unknowingly buying cigarettes with higher levels of toxic chemicals.
On the other hand, there have been efforts to reduce the prevalence of smoking in the UK. In 2007, smoking was banned in enclosed public spaces, including pubs, restaurants, and offices. This has been a significant step towards reducing exposure to secondhand smoke and creating a healthier environment for non-smokers. However, there are still designated smoking areas in some public spaces and restaurants that allow smoking, which can be an inconvenience for those trying to avoid the harmful effects of cigarette smoke.
Moreover, the age limit for purchasing cigarettes in the UK is 18 years old. However, underage smoking continues to be an issue in the country. In a study conducted by the UK Centre for Tobacco Control Studies in 2017, it was found that 5.4% of 11 to 18-year-olds used cigarettes regularly, with most of them starting before the age of 15. This highlights the need for stricter enforcement of the existing laws to prevent young people from picking up this addictive habit.
Another concerning aspect of cigarettes in the UK is the lack of regulation in terms of additives and flavorings. Menthol cigarettes, for example, are popular among young smokers due to their cooling sensation and minty taste. The EU has recently banned flavored cigarettes, but menthol cigarettes have been given a deadline of 2020. This presents a loophole for tobacco companies to introduce new products and potentially attract younger consumers.
In addition to menthol, additives such as sugar and chocolate are also used to make cigarettes more appealing to young people. These additives can also make smoking more addictive, making it harder for smokers to quit.
Apart from the physical and health implications of smoking, there are other societal issues that arise from the use of cigarettes. One of the most visible is the environmental impact. Each year, billions of cigarette butts are littered on streets, beaches, and parks, contributing to pollution and harming wildlife. Cigarette filters, made of non-biodegradable materials, can take up to 10 years to decompose, releasing toxic chemicals into the environment.
Moreover, the tobacco industry also has a negative impact on low and middle-income countries where most of the tobacco farming is done. Workers in these countries are exposed to harmful chemicals and often work in poor conditions for low wages. In some cases, child labor is also involved in the production of tobacco.
Despite all the evidence and efforts to reduce the use of cigarettes in the UK, it remains a constant presence in society. From the corner store to the pub, the smell of smoke can be found everywhere. Smokers themselves often recognize the health risks and negative effects of smoking, but continue to do so due to addiction or social pressure.
In conclusion, cigarettes in the UK have become a multi-faceted issue. From the high costs and taxes to the impact on the environment and society, there are numerous factors to consider when looking at the use of cigarettes. While there have been efforts to reduce smoking and its impact, there is still a long way to go in terms of regulation, enforcement, and awareness. As a non-smoker, I hope to see a future where cigarettes are no longer a part of British culture, and the harm caused by them is a thing of the past.