As I light up another cigarette, I can’t help but think about the controversial topic that surrounds these small sticks of tobacco. Cigarettes have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. From my teenage years, when I thought it was cool to smoke, to now as an adult where it’s become a habit that I can’t seem to break. However, with the constant warnings and debates about the dangers of smoking, I can’t help but wonder what the reality of cigarettes is like in the UK.
In the United Kingdom, cigarettes have a long history dating back to the 16th century when they were first introduced by the Spanish, who had discovered tobacco in the Americas. Since then, the popularity of cigarettes has grown exponentially and today, it is estimated that over 7 million people in the UK are smokers. But what makes cigarettes so appealing to us? Is it just a bad habit or is there something more to it? Let’s take a closer look at the world of cigarettes in the UK.
Firstly, let’s talk about the cost. Cigarettes in the UK are not cheap. A pack of 20 cigarettes can cost anywhere from £9 to £13 depending on the brand. This might seem like a relatively small amount, but for a pack-a-day smoker like myself, it adds up quickly. In fact, studies have shown that smoking in the UK can cost a smoker over £2500 a year. But despite the high cost, people still continue to smoke. Is it because we don’t care about our finances or is there something else that keeps us hooked to this expensive habit?
I believe that the answer lies in the addictive nature of cigarettes. Nicotine, the primary chemical in cigarettes, is highly addictive and is responsible for the feeling of pleasure and relaxation that smokers experience. It’s no wonder that once you start smoking, it’s difficult to quit. In fact, it is estimated that only 4-7% of smokers manage to successfully quit each year, despite the multiple smoking cessation methods available.
Another factor that plays a role in the popularity of cigarettes in the UK is its availability. Unlike other countries where cigarettes are only sold in specific shops, in the UK, they are readily available in almost all convenience stores, supermarkets and petrol stations. This means that it’s easy for smokers to get their hands on a pack whenever they need one, making it a convenient form of stress relief or a social activity.
But with convenience and addiction come serious health risks. The undeniable truth is that smoking cigarettes can have a detrimental effect on our health. It’s no surprise that smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in the UK, with over 100,000 people dying from smoking-related illnesses each year. From lung cancer to heart disease, cigarettes are responsible for a range of health problems that can significantly decrease our quality of life.
Despite these alarming statistics, cigarettes continue to be a significant part of our society. Advertisements and marketing tactics used by tobacco companies have played a significant role in normalising and glamorising smoking in the past. However, with stricter regulations and campaigns against smoking, attitudes have begun to shift, and more and more people are becoming aware of the dangers of cigarettes.
One of the most significant steps taken by the UK government to tackle smoking is the implementation of the smoking ban in indoor public places. Since 2007, it has been illegal to smoke in all enclosed public spaces, including bars, restaurants, and public transport. This has not only helped to protect non-smokers from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke but has also encouraged many people to quit smoking.
The UK has also taken steps to reduce the appeal of cigarettes to young people. In 2017, it became illegal to sell cigarettes in packs of less than 20, and all cigarette packaging must now have prominent health warnings and graphic images depicting the harmful effects of smoking. These measures, along with the increasing price of cigarettes, have started to have an impact. The number of smokers in the UK has been declining steadily over the years, with the current smoking rate at its lowest in decades.
In addition to the government’s efforts, there are also countless organisations and charities working towards reducing smoking rates in the UK. From providing support and resources to smokers who want to quit to educating young people about the dangers of cigarettes, these organisations are a vital part of the fight against smoking.
In conclusion, cigarettes in the UK are a complex and controversial topic. While they continue to be a part of our society, the government and various organisations are taking steps towards reducing their use and protecting the health of the public. As a smoker, I know the dangers of this habit, but also understand the difficulty of quitting. However, with the increasing awareness and resources available, I remain hopeful that one day I, along with many others, will be able to break free from the grasp of cigarettes.