My name is Jack and I am a regular smoker living in the UK. For as long as I can remember, cigarettes have been a part of my life. I started smoking when I was a teenager, influenced by my friends and the glamorous image that was associated with smoking. But as I grew older, I realized the harsh reality of cigarettes and the impact they have on my health and the environment. In this article, I will be sharing my personal experiences and observations about cigarettes in the UK.
It is no secret that smoking is a prevalent habit in the UK. According to the Office of National Statistics, in 2020, the percentage of adults that smoke in Great Britain was at 16.8%, with the highest proportion being young adults aged between 18-24. This is a worrying statistic as it shows that despite efforts to reduce smoking rates, many young people are still taking up this harmful habit.
One major factor that makes cigarettes easily accessible in the UK is the vast number of tobacco shops and supermarkets that sell them. It is almost impossible to walk down a busy street without seeing a shop selling cigarettes. This easy availability has normalized smoking to a certain extent, making it seem like a harmless activity. But as a smoker, I know firsthand that cigarettes are anything but harmless.
One of the major downsides of smoking is its impact on my health. As a smoker, I am well aware of the risks associated with smoking, such as lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Despite this knowledge, I have found it challenging to quit smoking. The addictive nature of nicotine, the main component in cigarettes, makes it difficult to break free from the habit. I have tried to quit several times, but the withdrawal symptoms and cravings always pull me back in.
Apart from the obvious harm smoking causes to my health, it also has a significant impact on my finances. Smoking is an expensive habit, and the cost of a pack of cigarettes keeps increasing every year. In the UK, the price of a pack of 20 cigarettes ranges from £10 to £14, depending on the brand and location. As a daily smoker, I am spending a considerable amount of money each month on cigarettes, which could be put towards more important things such as savings or investments. But addiction is a powerful force, and it is challenging to give up something that you are addicted to, even if it is costing you a lot of money.
Aside from the personal impact of smoking, there is also the issue of the environmental impact. Cigarette butts are the most littered item in the world, and it is estimated that approximately 4.5 trillion cigarette butts are improperly disposed of each year. These discarded butts are not only an eyesore, but they also pose a significant threat to the environment. Cigarette filters are made of a type of plastic that takes decades to decompose, and they also contain toxic chemicals that can harm wildlife and contaminate waterways.
Another issue that needs to be addressed is the impact of smoking on non-smokers. Secondhand smoke is just as harmful as smoking itself, and non-smokers can be exposed to it in public places where smoking is allowed, such as designated smoking areas or outdoor spaces. This is a particular concern for children, as exposure to secondhand smoke can increase their risk of respiratory infections and asthma.
In recent years, there have been efforts to protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke by implementing laws and regulations. In 2007, the UK government introduced a ban on smoking in enclosed public spaces, including restaurants, bars, and public transport. This has significantly reduced exposure to secondhand smoke and created a healthier environment for everyone. However, there is still room for improvement, especially when it comes to outdoor smoking policies.
Despite all the negative aspects of smoking, I still find myself reaching for a cigarette whenever I am feeling stressed or anxious. Many others like me use smoking as a coping mechanism, which makes it even more challenging to quit. However, I am aware that I need to take responsibility for my own health and make a conscious effort to quit smoking.
In recent years, there has been an increase in awareness and resources for those looking to quit smoking. The National Health Service (NHS) offers free support and advice to anyone who wants to kick the habit. They have also introduced products such as nicotine patches and gum to help with cravings. I have personally tried using nicotine replacement products, and while they have helped, it ultimately comes down to my determination to quit.
The UK has also implemented stricter laws and regulations to discourage smoking. Since May 2017, all cigarette packs sold in the UK have to adhere to plain packaging laws, which means they have no branding or logos, only health warnings, and graphic images to deter smokers. Additionally, the government has introduced a ban on menthol cigarettes, which have been found to be particularly appealing to younger smokers.
In conclusion, my personal experiences and observations have taught me that cigarettes are not just a personal choice, but they have significant consequences on our health, finances, and the environment. Despite the efforts to discourage smoking through laws and regulations, it ultimately comes down to individual responsibility and determination to quit. I am on a journey to quit smoking, and I hope that with more awareness and support, many others will join me on this journey towards a healthier and smoke-free UK.