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As a British citizen, I have been exposed to the presence of cigarettes in our society for as long as I can remember. From the iconic red and white Marlboro packs to the sleek and sophisticated Benson and Hedges, cigarettes have become ingrained in our culture and way of life. However, with the increasing awareness and regulations surrounding health risks, I cannot help but question the impact of cigarettes on our country and its people.
Firstly, let’s explore the history of cigarettes in the UK. The earliest recorded cigarette usage in the UK can be traced back to the 16th century, where it was mainly used by the upper class as a luxurious item. However, it was not until the 19th century that cigarettes became more widespread and accessible, thanks to technological advancements in tobacco production. It was during this time that the famous British brand, Benson and Hedges, was established, and it still remains a household name to this day.
Over the years, cigarettes have evolved in design and marketing, with companies constantly coming up with new and innovative ways to attract consumers. From flavored cigarettes to colorful packaging, the industry has adapted to appeal to different demographics and target markets. This has also raised concerns about the impact of these tactics on young individuals who may be more susceptible to trying cigarettes.
Now, let’s delve into the statistics surrounding cigarettes in the UK. In 2018, it was reported that 14.7% of adults in the UK were smokers, compared to 34.4% in 1990. While this is a significant decrease, it still means that there are millions of people in our country who are regular smokers. In addition, studies have shown that smoking is more prevalent among more deprived areas and communities, with 22% of people living in the most deprived areas smoking, compared to 8.8% in the least deprived areas.
One of the main concerns surrounding cigarettes is the impact on our health. It is no secret that smoking is harmful to our bodies, with numerous studies linking it to various health issues such as lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. In fact, smoking is responsible for around 96,000 deaths in the UK each year. Not only does smoking harm the individual, but it also has a significant impact on our healthcare system. In 2015, it was estimated that smoking-related illnesses cost the NHS a staggering £2.5 billion. As a taxpayer, I cannot help but feel frustrated that my money is being spent on treating preventable illnesses caused by smoking.
Furthermore, smoking also has a detrimental effect on the environment. Cigarettes contain over 4,000 chemicals, including carbon monoxide, tar, and nicotine, which are released into the atmosphere when they are lit. These chemicals not only pollute the air but also contaminate the soil and water when disposed of improperly. In fact, an estimated 4.5 trillion cigarette butts are littered worldwide every year, making them the most littered item on the planet. As someone who cares about the environment, it is disheartening to know that this issue continues to persist.
Despite the mounting evidence and risks associated with smoking, it is still a widely accepted and legal activity in the UK. This raises the argument of personal choice and individual responsibility. As adults, we have the right to make our own choices, but at what cost? Should we not prioritize our health and well-being for the sake of a temporary pleasure?
The government has taken steps to regulate the tobacco industry in the UK, such as implementing stricter laws on advertising and banning smoking in public places. However, there is still more that can be done to curb smoking rates and prevent the harm it causes. For instance, increasing the price of cigarettes through taxation has been shown to be an effective method in reducing consumption, as evidenced by the decrease in smoking rates in Australia after implementing plain packaging laws and significant tax increases.
Additionally, more support and resources should be provided for those who are trying to quit smoking. The NHS already offers free quit smoking services, but there is room for improvement in terms of accessibility and awareness. We also need to address the underlying issues that lead to smoking, such as stress, peer pressure, and addiction.
In conclusion, cigarettes have become deeply ingrained in British culture and have a significant impact on our society and environment. While personal freedom and choice are important, we must also consider the consequences of these choices on ourselves and those around us. As a nation, we need to continue raising awareness, implementing regulations, and providing support to decrease smoking rates and improve the well-being of our citizens.