Growing up in the UK, it was impossible to ignore the presence of cigarettes. From the bright red packaging to the smell of smoke wafting in the air, cigarettes seemed to be everywhere. As I got older, I couldn’t help but wonder about the appeal of these small sticks of tobacco. What is it about cigarettes that make them so popular, despite all the warning labels and health risks? In this article, I will take a closer look at cigarettes in the UK, exploring their history, usage, and impact on society.
Reaching back into history, the use of tobacco dates back to ancient times. Native Americans used it in rituals and for medicinal purposes, while Europeans began smoking tobacco after Christopher Columbus introduced it to the continent in the late 15th century. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that cigarettes as we know them today began to gain popularity. This was largely due to an increase in cigarette production and the widespread use of cigarettes by soldiers during wars, such as the Crimean War and World War I.
Fast forward to present day, and cigarettes are still a huge part of society. According to the National Statistics for the UK, in 2020, approximately 14.1% of the UK population aged 18 years and above were current smokers. This may not seem like a large percentage, but it adds up to about 7.4 million adults. As a non-smoker, I have always been curious about the allure of cigarettes. I decided to speak to a few smokers and hear their thoughts on why they started smoking and why they continue to do so.
One of my friends, Sarah, shared her story with me. She started smoking when she was 16 years old due to peer pressure. “All my friends were doing it, and I wanted to fit in,” she said. However, what started as an attempt to fit in became a habit that she couldn’t seem to shake. “I’ve tried to quit multiple times, but I always end up coming back to it,” she admitted. When asked why she continues to smoke, Sarah mentioned the feeling of relaxation and relief she gets from a cigarette. “It’s almost like a stress reliever,” she explained. “Even though I know the risks, I can’t seem to give it up.”
Another smoker I spoke to, John, had a different perspective. He started smoking at a young age and admits that he was aware of the health risks but didn’t care. “I was young and foolish, and I didn’t think about the consequences,” he said. As an adult, he continues to smoke because he enjoys the taste and the social aspect of it. “It’s a way for me to relax, and it’s also something to do when I’m out with friends,” he shared.
While everyone has their own reasons for smoking, it’s important to note that cigarettes are highly addictive. This is due to the nicotine content, a chemical found in tobacco which acts as a stimulant and creates a sense of pleasure and relaxation when it reaches the brain. According to the NHS, nicotine is as addictive as heroin and cocaine, and it can be challenging to quit smoking once the addiction has taken hold.
Despite the addictive nature of cigarettes, efforts have been made to reduce smoking rates in the UK. One of the most significant measures was the ban on smoking in enclosed public spaces, which was introduced in England in 2007. This meant that smokers could no longer light up in restaurants, bars, and other indoor spaces, making it more difficult for them to smoke in public. While this measure has been successful in reducing exposure to secondhand smoke, it hasn’t necessarily led to a decrease in the number of smokers.
In recent years, there have also been calls for stricter regulations on cigarette packaging. Currently, cigarettes in the UK are sold in standardized packaging with graphic health warnings covering 65% of the front and back of the pack. However, campaigns such as “Plain Packs Save Lives” have pushed for completely plain packaging, with no logos or branding, making the health warnings more prominent.
It’s also worth mentioning the cost of cigarettes in the UK. On average, a pack of 20 cigarettes can cost anywhere from £10 to £13. This is due to the high taxes imposed on tobacco products, with the aim of deterring people from smoking. However, this may not have the desired effect, as many smokers are willing to pay the high prices to satisfy their addiction.
Aside from the personal impact of smoking, there are also significant economic and social impacts. According to research by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), the cost of smoking to the UK economy is estimated to be around £12.9 billion every year. This includes costs related to healthcare, productivity losses, and social care. In terms of social impact, smoking is responsible for thousands of deaths every year, making it the leading cause of preventable death in the UK.
However, in recent years, the introduction of e-cigarettes or vapes has become a popular alternative to traditional cigarettes. These devices heat liquid, which usually contains nicotine, into a vapor that is then inhaled. While e-cigarettes are a newer concept and still require more research, many users claim that it has helped them quit smoking cigarettes. However, there are concerns about the long-term health effects of e-cigarettes, and they are not without their controversies.
In conclusion, the presence of cigarettes in the UK is undeniable. Despite constant warnings and regulations, cigarettes continue to be a significant part of society. While the reasons for smoking may vary, it’s important to acknowledge the addictive nature and harmful health effects of cigarettes. As a non-smoker, it’s challenging for me to understand the appeal of smoking, but after speaking to smokers and learning more about the history and impact of cigarettes, I can see how difficult it can be to break the habit.