As I light up my cigarette, I can’t help but think about the controversial history and current state of cigarettes in the UK. Growing up, I was always surrounded by cigarette smokers – my parents, relatives, and even friends. It seemed like a normal part of life, but as I got older and learned more about the health risks and societal impact of smoking, I began to question its prevalence in our society.
The United Kingdom has a long history with cigarettes. It was one of the first countries to have widespread tobacco use, ever since Spanish explorer Rodrigo de Jerez brought it back from his travels to the New World in the 16th century. From then on, cigarettes became a popular commodity, with tobacco plantations popping up all over the country and the industry booming.
But it wasn’t until the 20th century that cigarettes became a national phenomenon. World War I brought about a new way of smoking, with soldiers being given free cigarettes as part of their ration packs. This normalized the habit and made it more socially acceptable. In the 1920s and 30s, advertising for cigarettes became increasingly prevalent and glamorous, with famous actors and athletes endorsing them. Even doctors were shown smoking in advertisements, claiming that it was a stress-reliever.
It wasn’t until the 1950s that the UK government began to take notice of the health risks associated with smoking. Research began to show a link between smoking and lung cancer, and warnings started to appear on cigarette packets. In the 1970s, ads were banned from television, and by the 1990s, smoking in public places was also prohibited. These actions were a huge step towards curbing the rampant cigarette culture in the UK.
However, despite the government’s efforts, smoking still remains a big part of British culture. According to the Office for National Statistics, in 2020, 15.5% of the population aged 18 years and above were still smoking. Although this is a significant decrease from previous years, it is still a considerable percentage, with around 6.9 million smokers in the country.
One of the reasons for the continued prevalence of smoking in the UK is the availability and affordability of cigarettes. They can be easily bought at convenience stores, supermarkets, and even vending machines. The prices of cigarettes are also relatively lower than in other countries, especially in comparison to Scandinavian and Asian countries where stricter laws and high taxes are in place.
Another contributing factor is the tobacco industry’s clever marketing and branding techniques. Despite strict restrictions on advertising, tobacco companies have found ways to promote their products, especially to young people. Colorful packaging, slick designs, and catchy slogans make cigarettes appealing to the younger generation, who may not fully understand the long-term consequences of smoking.
Moreover, the social aspect of smoking is also a strong driving force for its continued prevalence. Many smokers consider it a way to socialize, destress, or even bond with others. Smokers often gather outside office buildings, restaurants, and pubs to have a quick smoke, creating a community of smokers who may not even know each other.
But even with all these factors, there is a growing awareness and push towards a smoke-free society in the UK. In 2007, the government introduced a ban on smoking in enclosed public places, including pubs and restaurants, which significantly reduced the number of smokers. In recent years, there has been a rise in the popularity of e-cigarettes and other smokeless alternatives, which claim to be a safer and healthier option. Public health campaigns and support services like the NHS Stop Smoking Services have also helped many people quit the habit.
There have also been discussions about implementing stricter laws and regulations, similar to those in other countries. For example, there are talks of raising the legal age to purchase cigarettes from 18 to 21 and banning smoking in outdoor public places like parks and beaches.
But while these measures may seem extreme to some, it’s worth considering the health and economic impact of smoking in the UK. According to a study by the University of Bath, smoking costs the NHS in England an estimated £2.6 billion a year and also results in lost productivity and premature deaths. It’s not just the individual smoker who suffers but also the entire society.
As I finish my cigarette and put it out, I can’t help but reflect on the conflicting feelings I have towards this small stick of tobacco. On one hand, it’s a personal choice and freedom that individuals should have, but on the other, it’s a dangerous and expensive habit that has a far-reaching impact. I hope that in the near future, we can find a balance and work towards a smoke-free society where cigarettes are a thing of the past.