As I sit outside on a bench, trying to enjoy the fresh air, I can’t help but be bombarded by the pungent smell of cigarette smoke. It seems like no matter where I go in the UK, I am always surrounded by people smoking. The UK has a long and complicated relationship with cigarettes, and as a non-smoker, I can’t help but wonder why cigarettes are still so prevalent in this country.
First and foremost, let’s talk about the numbers. According to the Office for National Statistics, in 2019, there were an estimated 6.4 million smokers in the UK. That’s about 14% of the population over the age of 18. And out of those 6.4 million smokers, around 78,000 die every year from smoking-related illnesses. These numbers are staggering and showcase just how prevalent and deadly smoking is in the UK.
But why do so many people smoke in the UK? Is it the easy access to cigarettes? Is it ingrained in the culture? Is it a lack of education on the harmful effects of smoking? In my opinion, it’s a combination of all of these factors. Let’s start with access to cigarettes.
In the UK, cigarettes are readily available for purchase in almost every corner store, gas station, and supermarket. Unlike other countries that have strict laws and regulations on the sale of tobacco, the UK seems to have a more lenient approach when it comes to the sale of cigarettes. It’s easy for anyone, regardless of age, to walk into a shop and buy a pack of cigarettes. This easy access makes it tempting for people, especially young adults, to pick up the habit.
Another reason for the prevalence of smoking in the UK is its deeply ingrained cultural history. The UK has a long and complicated relationship with smoking, dating back to the 16th century when tobacco was first introduced to Europe. It wasn’t until the 19th century that smoking became more widespread, with the introduction of the “cigarette culture,” popularized by the upper class. This history has embedded the idea that smoking is sophisticated and glamorous, perpetuated by images of celebrities and models smoking in advertisements. Even though we now know the harmful effects of smoking, the cultural connotations associated with it still remain.
But perhaps the most significant factor contributing to the prevalence of smoking in the UK is a lack of education and awareness on the harmful effects of smoking. While there have been efforts to educate the public, it is still not enough. Many young people are not fully aware of the risks associated with smoking, and the tobacco industry continues to target and market to young adults. In addition, the lack of graphic warnings on cigarette packaging in the UK compared to other countries, such as Australia, may contribute to the lack of understanding of the dangers of smoking.
As a non-smoker, living in the UK can be frustrating at times. I have seen many of my friends and colleagues pick up the habit, and it breaks my heart knowing the potential consequences of their actions. However, I also understand that quitting smoking is not easy, and it requires a lot of support and resources. The UK has made strides in providing these resources, such as the NHS Stop Smoking Services, which offer free counseling and medication to help people quit smoking. But again, awareness and accessibility to these services can be improved.
Despite the challenges and prevalence of smoking in the UK, I have also seen progress towards a smoke-free society. The smoking ban in enclosed public places, implemented in 2007, has significantly reduced exposure to second-hand smoke and has encouraged some smokers to quit. I have also noticed a shift in attitudes towards smoking, with more people preferring to avoid smoking areas and choosing to lead a healthier lifestyle.
In conclusion, cigarettes in the UK have a complex and long-standing history, and it will take a combination of efforts to reduce the prevalence of smoking. While the UK has made progress, there is still much to be done in terms of education, regulation, and accessibility to resources for smokers looking to quit. As I continue to sit on this bench, surrounded by the smell of cigarette smoke, I can only hope that one day, the UK will be a truly smoke-free society.