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As I sit outside my local pub, I watch as a group of friends light up their cigarettes and begin to puff away. Although smoking in public places is now banned in the UK, it seems that this group of individuals couldn’t care less. This common sight is a reminder of the widespread influence that cigarettes still hold in our society.
Being a smoker myself, I understand the appeal of cigarettes. The moment the first inhale of smoke hits my lungs, I feel a sense of relaxation and comfort. It’s almost like a familiar friend, ready to soothe any stress or anxiety I may be feeling. But as much as I enjoy my cigarette, I can’t deny the harmful effects that it has on my health, as well as the environment and those around me.
The history of cigarettes in the UK dates back to the 16th century when they were introduced by explorers returning from the Americas. They were initially used for medicinal purposes, but it wasn’t until the 19th century that they became widely popular and were mass produced. In the 1920s, advertising of cigarettes increased and they were seen as a symbol of glamour and modernity.
Fast forward to present day, and the UK has one of the highest rates of smoking in Europe. According to the Office for National Statistics, approximately 14.7% of the UK population are smokers, with higher rates among younger people. This may seem surprising as smoking rates have been decreasing over the years, but the fact remains that cigarettes are still easily accessible and widely accepted by society.
One of the main reasons for the decline in smoking rates is due to the numerous health risks associated with smoking. Cigarettes contain over 70 carcinogens and toxins, including tar, carbon monoxide, and nicotine. These chemicals can lead to a variety of health problems such as lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory issues. In fact, smoking causes around 78,000 deaths in the UK every year, and the government spends over £2.5 billion on smoking-related healthcare costs.
Despite these alarming statistics, cigarettes are still heavily marketed and advertised, with companies using tactics to appeal to younger audiences. For instance, flavored cigarettes, such as menthol or fruit-flavored, are aimed at attracting younger smokers who may find the taste of a regular cigarette too harsh. These cigarettes are also designed to be more socially acceptable, making it easier for younger individuals to start smoking.
Another concerning issue is the impact of cigarettes on the environment. Cigarette butts are the most commonly littered item in the world, with an estimated 4.5 trillion tossed away every year. These small but toxic items are not only an eyesore, but also detrimental to the environment as they release toxic chemicals and take years to decompose. In addition, cigarette smoke contains carbon monoxide and other pollutants that contribute to air pollution.
Despite all of these negative consequences, cigarettes are still legally sold in the UK. This raises the question, why are cigarettes not banned altogether? The answer lies in the fact that cigarettes bring in a significant amount of revenue for the government. In 2019, the UK tobacco market was worth over £13 billion, with the government earning around £9.5 billion in taxes. This creates a conflict of interest for the government as they have a responsibility to protect the health of their citizens, yet they also benefit financially from the sale of cigarettes.
There have been efforts to decrease smoking rates in the UK, such as the ban on smoking in public places and the introduction of plain packaging in 2016. However, these measures have not been enough to completely eradicate smoking. It seems that for some, the lure of smoking is too strong to resist, and the tobacco industry continues to thrive.
As a smoker, I am aware of the negative effects of my habit, but it is difficult to quit. Nicotine, the highly addictive substance in cigarettes, makes it hard to break the habit and cravings for a cigarette can be overwhelming. Additionally, smoking has become deeply ingrained in many aspects of my life, such as socializing with friends, and it can be challenging to change these routines.
However, I am making efforts to reduce my smoking and I believe that education and support are crucial in encouraging others to do the same. The younger generation needs to be educated about the harmful effects of smoking and the tactics used by the tobacco industry to market their products. There also needs to be more support available for those who want to quit smoking, such as smoking cessation programs and products.
In conclusion, cigarettes in the UK may seem like a harmless vice, but the reality is far from it. The widespread influence of cigarettes has harmful effects on our health, the environment, and our wallets. It is time for the government to prioritize the well-being of its citizens over financial gain and take stronger measures to reduce smoking rates. As for me, I am determined to continue my efforts to quit smoking and I hope that others will join me in this journey towards a healthier and smoke-free future.