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As a regular smoker living in the UK, I have seen the impact of cigarettes on both a personal and societal level. The tobacco industry is a controversial topic that has been heavily discussed and debated over the years. In this article, I will share my thoughts and experiences on cigarettes in the UK, with a focus on its consumption, health effects, and regulations.
First and foremost, it’s no secret that cigarettes are widely available and heavily consumed in the UK. Almost everywhere you go, there’s a corner shop or supermarket selling cigarettes, making it convenient for smokers to purchase them. I remember when I first started smoking, it was easy for me to get my hands on a pack of cigarettes, and as time went on, it became a habit that I couldn’t kick.
Even though the UK government has introduced various smoking bans and restrictions, such as the ban on smoking in public places, it is still a prevalent habit among its citizens. In fact, according to a survey by the Office for National Statistics, approximately 14.7% of adults in the UK smoke, which is equivalent to around 7.2 million people. This number may seem shocking, but it is a reality that we cannot ignore.
One of the main reasons why cigarettes are so widely consumed in the UK is its affordability. Compared to other countries, cigarettes in the UK are relatively cheaper due to lower taxes. A pack of cigarettes can cost around £10, which may not seem like a lot of money, but for someone who smokes a pack a day, that’s around £300 a month. This affordability makes it difficult for smokers to quit, as they see it as a part of their daily routine.
However, along with its affordability, comes the adverse health effects of smoking. It’s no secret that cigarettes contain harmful chemicals such as nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide. These chemicals can cause various health issues, including heart disease, lung cancer, and stroke. As someone who has been smoking for years, I cannot deny the fact that it has taken a toll on my health. I have noticed a decrease in my lung capacity, persistent cough, and a constant feeling of shortness of breath. These are just some of the many symptoms that smokers experience, and it only gets worse as time goes on.
Not only does smoking affect an individual’s health, but it also has a significant impact on the overall health care system in the UK. According to the National Health Service (NHS), smoking-related illnesses cost the UK government more than £11 billion a year, including the cost of treatment and loss of productivity. This is a huge burden on society, and it’s something that needs to be addressed.
Due to the known health consequences of smoking, the UK government has implemented several regulations in an attempt to reduce its consumption. The most significant step taken was the ban on smoking in enclosed public places, which came into effect in 2007. This ban has had a significant impact on reducing exposure to second-hand smoke and has encouraged some smokers to quit. However, there are still ways for smokers to get around this ban, such as smoking in outdoor areas or using e-cigarettes.
Another regulation that has been in place for several years is the display ban on cigarettes in shops. This means that cigarettes and tobacco products are no longer visible in stores, and customers have to ask for them specifically. This has been proven to be effective in reducing impulse purchases and deterring young people from starting smoking. However, there are still concerns about the accessibility of cigarettes in local corner shops and supermarkets, which can make it easy for underage individuals to purchase them.
The latest regulation that the UK government has introduced is the ban on menthol cigarettes, which came into effect in May 2020. This ban aims to reduce the attractiveness of cigarettes and make it less appealing for young people to start smoking. Menthol cigarettes, due to their minty and sweet flavor, were easier to consume and were often seen as a ‘starter’ cigarette for young people. As a former menthol cigarette smoker, I can attest to this fact. The ban has forced me to switch to regular cigarettes, making it less enjoyable for me to smoke, and eventually reducing my consumption.
In conclusion, cigarettes in the UK have a significant impact on both individuals and society. Its affordability, along with the lack of awareness about its health consequences, makes it difficult for smokers to quit. However, with the various regulations in place, there is hope for a smoke-free UK in the future. As a smoker, I know the struggles of trying to quit, but I also believe that with the right support and resources, it is possible to kick this habit. It’s time for us to take responsibility for our health and reduce the burden on our society caused by smoking.