As a resident of the United Kingdom, I have seen the presence of cigarettes in our society for as long as I can remember. It is a common sight to see people walking down the street, puffing away at their cigarettes without a care in the world. And I have to admit, as a former smoker, I was once one of those people.
But as I have grown older and become more aware of the dangers of cigarettes, I can’t help but wonder how they are still so prevalent in our society. In this article, I will take a closer look at the culture of smoking in the UK and the various factors that contribute to its prevalence.
It is no secret that cigarette smoking is a major health hazard. According to the National Health Service (NHS), tobacco is responsible for over 100,000 deaths in the UK each year. This figure includes both smokers and non-smokers who are exposed to secondhand smoke. In fact, secondhand smoke contains over 4,000 chemicals and at least 70 of them can cause cancer.
Despite these alarming statistics, cigarettes are still legal and easily accessible in the UK. The main reason for this is that the tobacco industry is a significant source of revenue for the government. In fact, according to the UK Tobacco Control Scale, the UK ranks ninth out of 35 European countries in terms of tobacco control policies, which shows that there is still a long way to go in terms of regulating the tobacco industry.
But it’s not just the government that benefits from tobacco sales; the tobacco industry itself is a multi-billion pound business. The UK is home to some of the largest tobacco companies in the world, including British American Tobacco, Imperial Brands, and Japan Tobacco International. These companies have a significant influence on our society, using marketing techniques to make smoking seem glamorous and desirable, especially to young people.
Speaking of young people, smoking in the UK has been on the decline in recent years, with more and more young people choosing not to smoke. According to a report by the Office for National Statistics, only 17.1% of young people aged 16-24 smoked in 2019, a significant decrease from 20.2% in 2017. This can be attributed to various factors, such as stricter laws on selling cigarettes to minors, education campaigns on the dangers of smoking, and the rise of e-cigarettes as a supposedly “healthier” alternative.
However, the decline in smoking among young people is offset by the fact that smoking rates among adults have remained relatively consistent. In 2019, 14.1% of adults in the UK were smokers, a decrease from 15.8% in 2018 but still a worrying statistic. And what’s even more concerning is that smoking rates are higher among those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, making it a class issue as well.
But what is it about cigarettes that makes them so appealing despite the known health risks? From my own experience, I can say that smoking can be a comforting and even addictive habit. The nicotine in cigarettes is a highly addictive substance that can stimulate the pleasure centers in our brains, making us feel good and relaxed. It can also act as a stress reliever, which is perhaps why many people turn to cigarettes during times of difficulty or anxiety.
However, the perceived benefits of smoking are far outweighed by the negative impacts it has on our health. Smoking can lead to various health problems, including lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory illnesses. Not to mention the financial burden it puts on both the smoker and the healthcare system.
Despite the overwhelming evidence against smoking, it was not until 2007 that smoking in enclosed public places was banned in the UK. This means that it is no longer allowed to smoke in restaurants, bars, offices, and other public spaces. This was a significant step in reducing the exposure of non-smokers to secondhand smoke, but it was met with resistance from both the tobacco industry and some smokers who felt their rights were being infringed upon.
Some critics argue that smoking is a personal choice and individuals should have the right to do what they want with their bodies. But when the actions of smokers affect the health and well-being of those around them, it becomes a matter of public health and safety.
On a more positive note, the UK government has been taking steps to reduce smoking rates and protect public health. In addition to the ban on smoking in public places, they have also implemented graphic warning labels on cigarette packs and have increased taxes on tobacco products. They have also launched campaigns such as Stoptober, which encourages smokers to quit for the month of October, and have invested in smoking cessation services.
As for my personal journey with smoking, I am happy to say that I have been smoke-free for three years now. It was not an easy journey, but one that I am glad I embarked on. I can feel the positive impact on my health and my wallet, and I no longer have to worry about the health risks and stigma that come with being a smoker.
In conclusion, while cigarettes are still a prevalent part of our society in the UK, it is clear that efforts are being made to reduce their impact. From stricter laws to education campaigns to support for quitting, there is hope that smoking rates will continue to decline and that more people will choose a smoke-free lifestyle. But ultimately, it is up to us as individuals to make the decision to quit smoking and take care of our own health and well-being.