As a British citizen, I have grown up in a society where smoking has always been a prevalent habit. Cigarettes have been a common sight in pubs, clubs, and on the streets. However, as I have grown older and become more aware of the impact of smoking, my attitude towards cigarettes has shifted. In this article, I will be exploring the world of cigarettes in the UK and sharing my thoughts on this controversial habit.
Firstly, let’s talk numbers. It is estimated that around 15% of the UK population are regular smokers, with a further 7% classed as occasional smokers. This may seem like a small percentage, but it equates to approximately 9 million adults who are still lighting up. Even more concerning is the fact that nearly one-third of these smokers are aged between 18-24 years old, indicating that the habit is still prevalent among younger generations.
One of the main reasons for this large number of smokers is the accessibility and affordability of cigarettes in the UK. Cigarettes are widely available in most local shops and supermarkets, with the average pack costing around £10. This may not seem like a significant amount but for a regular smoker, this can add up to a substantial expense.
In recent years, the UK government has implemented various measures in an attempt to reduce the number of smokers. These include increasing the legal age to purchase cigarettes from 16 to 18, banning smoking in public places, and making tobacco packaging less appealing with graphic images and warnings. However, despite these efforts, cigarettes are still a widely accepted and socially normal habit in the UK.
So, what drives people to smoke? From my own observations, I have found that smoking can be seen as a social activity, especially among younger age groups. It is not uncommon to see a group of friends smoking together outside a bar or pub. Smoking can also be used as a way to relieve stress and anxiety, a habit that is often formed in the workplace.
Personally, I have never been a regular smoker, but I have tried a cigarette on a few occasions. I have found the act of smoking to be quite calming, but the after-effects – the smell on my clothes and the lingering taste in my mouth – were enough to put me off for good. However, I understand why people find comfort in this habit, even though it comes at a cost to their health.
Speaking of health, the detrimental effects of smoking are well documented. In the UK alone, it is estimated that smoking causes around 100,000 deaths every year, making it the leading cause of preventable death. The statistics show that smokers are twice as likely to die prematurely compared to non-smokers, with illnesses such as lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke being directly linked to smoking. These are scary and eye-opening figures, and it is essential for individuals to be aware of the risks associated with smoking.
Furthermore, the effects of smoking are not just limited to the individual. Secondhand smoke, also known as passive smoking, is a significant issue, especially in public places such as bars and restaurants. Secondhand smoke contains more than 4,000 chemicals, many of which are carcinogens. Non-smokers who frequently inhale secondhand smoke are at risk of developing lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. It is a concerning issue, and I believe more needs to be done to protect non-smokers from the harms of secondhand smoke.
Despite the dangers and consequences of smoking in the UK, there is still a large population of people who continue to smoke. I believe this is partly due to the addiction to nicotine, the main addictive substance found in cigarettes. The withdrawal symptoms from smoking can be intense and can lead to individuals relapsing. This is why it is crucial for there to be more support available for those who want to quit smoking.
Thankfully, there are resources and services available in the UK to help smokers quit. The National Health Service (NHS) offers free stop-smoking services, providing support and access to nicotine replacement therapies. There are also numerous quit-smoking apps and support groups available online. These tools can be incredibly helpful for those wanting to kick the habit.
In conclusion, smoking in the UK is a complex issue that is a result of various factors such as accessibility, social norms, and addiction. It is a habit that has been ingrained in our society, but efforts are being made to reduce the number of smokers. It is vital for individuals to be aware of the health risks associated with smoking and for there to be more support available for those who want to quit. I hope that the number of smokers in the UK will continue to decline, and as a society, we can move towards a healthier and smoke-free future.