Cigarettes have been a part of my life for many years now. As a smoker based in the UK, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of cigarettes on individuals, communities, and the country as a whole. In this article, I will share my views and observations on the role and effects of cigarettes in the UK.
Growing up, I was surrounded by cigarette smoke. My parents and extended family were all smokers, and the smell of cigarettes was a constant in our household. As a teenager, I was lured into trying my first cigarette by my peers, and soon enough I was a regular smoker. Back then, cigarettes were easily accessible and affordable, making it easier for young people to get their hands on them. However, as I grew older, I began to realize the harmful effects of smoking on my health.
In the UK, cigarettes are a prevalent sight. They are sold in almost every corner shop, supermarket, and gas station. According to the Office for National Statistics, in 2019, an estimated 14.1% of the adult population in the UK smoked cigarettes, amounting to around 7.4 million people. These numbers may seem alarming, but they have actually decreased over the years. In 2010, the percentage of adult smokers in the UK was at 20.2%, showing that efforts to reduce smoking have been somewhat successful.
One of the main reasons why cigarettes are still popular in the UK is their affordability. In comparison to other countries, cigarettes in the UK are relatively cheaper. A pack of 20 cigarettes can range from £7 to £10, depending on the brand. For someone who smokes a pack a day, this can easily add up to hundreds of pounds a month. However, with the increasing awareness of the harmful effects of smoking, many people have turned to alternatives such as vaping or have quit altogether.
The UK government has also taken steps to make cigarettes less accessible and reduce the number of smokers in the country. These include increasing the legal age to buy cigarettes from 16 to 18 and banning smoking in public places such as restaurants, pubs, and workplaces. These measures have brought about a change in the smoking culture in the UK. For instance, it’s now considered socially unacceptable to smoke in public places, and those who do so are seen as disrespectful to the non-smoking majority.
Despite these efforts, cigarettes still have a significant impact on the UK. According to a study by Cancer Research UK, smoking is the leading cause of preventable deaths in the UK, with an estimated 78,000 deaths per year. This not only affects the individual but also has a significant economic impact. The NHS spends around £2 billion annually on smoking-related illnesses, and the lost productivity due to smoking-related illnesses costs the UK economy an estimated £13 billion a year. This is a massive burden on the country’s healthcare system and economy.
Apart from the health and economic effects, cigarettes also have a detrimental impact on the environment. Cigarette butts are the most littered item in the world, and in the UK, an estimated 122,000 tonnes of cigarette waste is generated annually. This waste ends up in landfills or as litter on the streets and beaches, polluting the environment and harming wildlife. Manufacturers have tried to tackle this issue by introducing biodegradable filters and promoting responsible disposal, but the problem still persists.
Moreover, cigarettes also contribute to air pollution. Secondhand smoke is a significant issue in the UK, especially in pubs and restaurants where smoking was once allowed. This not only affects the health of non-smokers but also adds to the already high levels of air pollution in urban areas.
The harmful effects of smoking are not limited to just the smoker. They also impact those around them. Secondhand smoke is known to cause health problems such as respiratory issues, asthma attacks, and lung cancer in non-smokers. Children who are exposed to secondhand smoke are at a higher risk of developing health problems, including Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). In the UK, an estimated 165,000 children aged 11 to 15 are exposed to secondhand smoke at home, putting them at risk of developing health issues.
As a smoker, I am fully aware of the consequences of my habit, not only on my own health but also on those around me. I have tried to quit multiple times, but it is easier said than done. Cigarettes contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance that keeps smokers hooked. Withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and cravings make quitting a challenging task. Despite knowing the risks, many people continue to smoke because of the addictive nature of cigarettes.
In recent years, there has been a rise in popularity of alternatives to traditional cigarettes, such as e-cigarettes or vaping. These products claim to be a safer alternative to smoking and have helped many people quit traditional cigarettes. However, they are not without their own set of controversies. There are concerns about the long-term effects of vaping and the potential for it to become a gateway to traditional smoking for young people. It is clear that more research needs to be done on the safety and efficacy of these alternatives.
In conclusion, the UK has come a long way in reducing the number of smokers in the country. However, cigarettes still have a significant impact on the health, economy, and environment of the nation. It is essential for individuals to understand the harmful effects of smoking and make an effort to quit for their own health and the health of those around them. It is also crucial for the government to continue implementing measures to discourage smoking and promote healthier alternatives. As for me, I am determined to quit and take control of my health, despite the challenges I may face along the way.