As I sat on a park bench, enjoying the warm summer breeze, I couldn’t help but notice the number of people around me lighting up cigarettes. It’s a scene that I have become accustomed to in the UK. Despite multiple efforts to decrease smoking rates, cigarettes are still a staple in our society. As a non-smoker, I’ve always been curious about the allure of cigarettes and their impact on the UK.
According to the Office for National Statistics, in 2020, 14.1% of adults in the UK were smokers. While this may seem like a small percentage, it still equates to around 7.4 million people. That’s a significant number of individuals who continue to engage in a habit that has known harmful effects on their health.
The tobacco plant has been around for centuries, with the act of smoking dating back to ancient civilizations. However, it wasn’t until the 16th century that tobacco was introduced to England by Sir Walter Raleigh. From there, it quickly gained popularity, and by the 19th century, smoking was a common activity among the wealthy and working class alike.
But as time went on, more and more research emerged about the dangers of smoking. In 1962, the first report linking smoking to various diseases was published, and it wasn’t long before the UK government started taking steps to regulate tobacco consumption. In 2007, the country banned smoking in public places, such as bars and restaurants, to protect non-smokers from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.
Despite these efforts, tobacco companies continue to thrive in the UK. Cigarettes are still readily available in supermarkets, convenience stores, and even vending machines. The sale of tobacco products generates billions of pounds in revenue every year, and it’s estimated that the UK government earns around £9.5 billion in taxes from the tobacco industry.
So why do so many people in the UK continue to smoke, despite knowing the risks?
As a non-smoker, I turned to some of my friends who are smokers to get a better understanding. The common response I received was that smoking helps them relax and deal with stress. It’s a momentary escape from the pressures of everyday life. Some also mentioned that the addictive nature of nicotine is what keeps them coming back for more.
But the reality is, the temporary relief that cigarettes provide comes with long-term consequences. Smoking is linked to various health issues, including lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Not to mention the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes, such as tar and carbon monoxide, which have been proven to cause damage to the body.
However, the danger of cigarettes doesn’t just stop at the individual level; it has broader societal implications. Secondhand smoke not only puts non-smokers at risk, but it also places a burden on our healthcare system. The annual cost of treating smoking-related illnesses in the UK is estimated to be around £11 billion, with an additional £4.1 billion for lost productivity.
But despite these alarming statistics, the tobacco industry continues to thrive in the UK. The marketing tactics used by companies are incredibly effective, especially on the younger population. Flavored cigarettes and stylish packaging are just some of the ways companies entice new smokers while also making it difficult for current smokers to quit.
Moreover, cigarettes are often glamorized in popular culture, with many celebrities and influencers endorsing smoking in various forms of media. This constant exposure to tobacco products makes it challenging for individuals to resist the temptation, especially young people.
Over the years, the UK government has implemented several measures to deter people from smoking. The introduction of plain packaging and graphic warning labels on cigarette packs is one such example. However, some argue that more needs to be done to discourage people from smoking, especially targeting young adults.
But at the end of the day, the decision to smoke ultimately lies with the individual. As much as the government can regulate tobacco sales and advertising, the responsibility falls on the individual to make healthier choices for themselves.
As I finish my walk in the park, I can’t help but feel concerned about the state of cigarettes in the UK. While progress has been made in decreasing smoking rates, there is still a long way to go. So the next time I see someone light up a cigarette, I’ll remind myself of the harmful effects it has on their health, as well as the impact it has on our society as a whole.