As someone who has been a smoker for nearly a decade now, I have seen the effects of cigarettes on both myself and those around me. The habit of smoking has become deeply ingrained in our society, especially in the United Kingdom. Despite the active campaigns against smoking and the increasing prices of cigarettes, they remain a prevalent and widely used product in the UK. In this article, I will delve into the world of cigarettes in the UK, from its history to its current state, and share my personal experiences and observations as a smoker.
The history of cigarettes in the UK can be traced back to the 16th century when tobacco was first introduced by Christopher Columbus. It quickly gained popularity among the upper class, and by the 19th century, it became widely accessible to the masses. In 1820, the first machine to produce cigarettes was invented, and this marked the beginning of mass production and the affordability of cigarettes. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century when the dangers of smoking started to come to light.
In the UK, the first health warning on cigarette packets was introduced in 1971, stating “WARNING – Cigarette smoking can damage your health”. This was followed by the banning of tobacco advertisements on television and radio in 1965 and on billboards in 2003. These measures were taken in an effort to discourage smoking and educate the public about its harmful effects. In 2007, the UK also became the first country in Europe to introduce graphic images on cigarette packets, further highlighting the hazards of smoking.
Despite these efforts, the number of smokers in the UK has remained steady at around 15% of the population. This translates to approximately 7.4 million adults who smoke, with the majority being between the ages of 18 to 24. As for gender, historically, smoking was more prevalent among men, but in recent years, the gap between men and women smokers has closed significantly.
One of the reasons for the continued popularity of cigarettes in the UK could be attributed to the widespread availability and accessibility of cigarettes. They can be purchased in a variety of places, from corner shops and supermarkets to petrol stations and vending machines, making them easily accessible at any time of the day. Cigarette prices in the UK are also relatively low compared to other European countries, which may contribute to their affordability for many smokers.
As a smoker, I can attest to the addictive nature of cigarettes. Nicotine, the primary psychoactive chemical in tobacco, is highly addictive, and quitting is not an easy feat. The physical and psychological dependence on cigarettes can make it challenging to quit, even with the knowledge of the harmful effects they can have on our health. It becomes a familiar routine, lighting up a cigarette after a meal, during breaks at work, or in social situations.
Another factor that may contribute to the continued use of cigarettes is the social aspect. For many smokers, cigarettes are not just a habit or addiction; they are also a social activity. Smoking areas outside pubs and restaurants are common in the UK, providing a space for smokers to gather, bond, and share a smoke. However, with the rise of e-cigarettes and vaping, smokers have also found a new way to socialize without the harmful effects of traditional cigarettes. E-cigarettes are now also widely accepted and used in the UK, providing an alternative to traditional smoking.
The UK government has implemented various measures to discourage smoking and encourage quitting. Cigarette prices have been steadily increasing, with the most significant price increase in April 2021, bringing the average cost of a pack of 20 cigarettes to £12.73. The money generated from the tobacco tax goes towards the National Health Service (NHS) to fund smoking cessation programs and campaigns. The UK has also implemented smoke-free laws, making it illegal to smoke in enclosed public places, including workplaces, bars, and restaurants. These laws have not only improved the air quality in these establishments but also protected non-smokers from second-hand smoke.
Since starting my journey as a smoker, I have seen and experienced the various changes in smoking laws and regulations. As a university student, I remember being able to smoke inside the campus buildings, a privilege that has since been taken away due to the implementation of smoke-free laws. Similarly, smoking on public transport and in train stations was allowed, but it is now prohibited.
I have also noticed a difference in the attitude towards smoking in society. While smoking was once seen as glamorous and socially acceptable, it is now often frowned upon. Non-smokers may avoid intimate relationships with smokers due to the smell of smoke on their clothes and hair. In job interviews, many employers now ask if you are a smoker, and it can sometimes affect their hiring decision.
Despite all the information and measures in place to warn against the dangers of smoking, it ultimately comes down to the individual’s choice. I, like many others, am aware of the risks associated with smoking, yet it remains a part of my daily routine. I have tried to quit numerous times, with different methods, but have always gone back to cigarettes. My personal experience has taught me that quitting smoking is not just about willpower; it also requires a strong support system and a desire to quit.
In conclusion, cigarettes remain a prevalent product in the UK, despite the various measures in place to discourage smoking. The history of cigarettes in the UK, from its introduction to the current state, reflects the gradual shift in attitudes towards smoking. As a smoker, I am fully aware of the harmful effects of cigarettes on my health, but I continue to smoke. While I may not be able to quit at the moment, I hope to see a society where smoking is no longer the norm and where people are not judged for their choices. The battle against smoking continues, and it is up to us as individuals to make the choice to quit or not.