As a smoker living in the United Kingdom, cigarettes have become an integral part of my life. Despite the constant warnings and campaigns against smoking, the UK still remains a nation of smokers. According to the Office for National Statistics, in 2019, about 14.1% of the adult population in the UK were smokers, that’s around 7.2 million people. In this article, I will be writing about my experiences and observations as a smoker in the UK and the impact that cigarettes have on our society.
Firstly, the cost of cigarettes in the UK is a hot topic among smokers. The price of a pack of 20 cigarettes ranges from £8-£12, depending on the brand and location. As a budget-conscious smoker, I have noticed that the cost of cigarettes has been constantly increasing over the years. This is due to a combination of factors such as increased taxes, government regulations, and the rising cost of production. For many of us smokers, this means having to spend a significant amount of money on our nicotine addiction each month.
Furthermore, the availability of cigarettes in the UK is astounding. Almost every corner shop, convenience store, and supermarket has a section dedicated to selling cigarettes. This makes it extremely easy for smokers to access and purchase them. I often find myself impulsively buying a pack of cigarettes while doing my grocery shopping, even when I had no intention of doing so. The easy accessibility of cigarettes in the UK makes it difficult for smokers to quit and for non-smokers to resist the temptation of trying it.
One thing that struck me as a smoker in the UK is the strict regulations and restrictions surrounding smoking in public places. In 2007, the UK government implemented a smoking ban in all enclosed public spaces, including pubs, restaurants, and workplaces. This regulation has been effective in reducing the exposure of non-smokers to secondhand smoke and promoting a healthier environment. However, for smokers like myself, it means having to constantly step out into the designated smoking area, regardless of the weather, to satisfy our cravings.
Another aspect of smoking in the UK that I find frustrating is the social stigma attached to it. Smoking is often viewed as a dirty and unhealthy habit, and smokers are often looked down upon by non-smokers. As a result, many smokers, including myself, often feel marginalized and judged by society. This negative perception of smoking also contributes to the difficulty in quitting, as smokers are often made to feel like outcasts and are not provided with enough support and resources to kick the habit.
Despite the challenges and criticisms faced by smokers in the UK, we continue to light up. For many of us, smoking has become a coping mechanism, a way to relieve stress and anxiety. However, the harsh reality is that cigarettes are detrimental to our health. In the UK alone, smoking is responsible for over 75,000 deaths annually, with diseases such as lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses being the leading causes. As a smoker, I am aware of the risks that come with my habit, but it’s not easy to give it up.
Moreover, the tobacco industry in the UK is a powerful and influential entity. The UK has one of the highest standards of tobacco regulation in the world, with strict packaging and advertising laws. However, this does not stop tobacco companies from heavily marketing their products and targeting vulnerable populations, such as young adults and low-income individuals. The colorful and attractive packaging, along with the use of misleading advertising strategies, makes it difficult for smokers to resist the urge to purchase cigarettes.
On a more positive note, I have noticed a growing trend among smokers in the UK to switch to vaping. Vaping, also known as e-cigarettes, has gained popularity as a supposedly healthier alternative to smoking. However, the long-term effects of vaping are still unknown, and it is a controversial topic in the UK. Some argue that it helps smokers quit while others believe it is just a gateway to smoking traditional cigarettes. Nonetheless, the availability of vaping products in the UK is a testament to the continuous evolution of the smoking industry.
In conclusion, smoking in the UK is a complex and multi-faceted issue. From the high cost of cigarettes to the strict regulations and social stigma, being a smoker in the UK is not easy. However, with the alarming statistics and consequences, it is essential for us as individuals and as a society to take steps towards reducing smoking rates in the UK. Whether it’s through government intervention, education, or personal action, it’s time for us to address the impact of cigarettes on our society and work towards a healthier future.