As a smoker living in the UK, cigarettes have been a part of my life for many years. The smell of tobacco, the feel of the cigarette between my fingers, and the satisfying exhale of smoke has become a ritual that I am all too familiar with. Despite the growing social stigma and health risks, smoking remains a prevalent habit in the UK, with over 15% of the population being smokers.
Being a smoker in the UK comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the ever-increasing price of cigarettes. In recent years, the UK government has imposed multiple taxes on tobacco products, making smoking an expensive habit. While the intention may be to discourage people from smoking, it has not been successful. As a smoker, I have seen prices increase by almost 50% in the past few years, with a pack of cigarettes now costing around £10. This means that a pack-a-day smoker spends over £3000 a year on cigarettes, which is a substantial amount of money.
Despite the high cost, cigarettes are easily accessible in the UK. They can be purchased at most convenience stores, supermarkets, and even petrol stations. This accessibility makes it challenging for smokers to quit, as cigarettes are always within reach. The packaging of cigarettes in the UK is also a topic of debate. In 2016, the UK became the first country to implement plain packaging for tobacco products, meaning that all cigarette packs are standardised in size and design, with prominent health warnings. As a smoker, I find these plain packs unappealing and it does not deter me from buying cigarettes. However, research has shown that plain packaging has decreased the appeal of smoking, especially among young people.
Smokers in the UK are also faced with strict regulations when it comes to smoking in public places. The smoking ban was introduced in England in 2007, making it illegal to smoke in all enclosed public places, including restaurants, bars, and workplaces. As a result, smokers are relegated to designated outdoor areas or have to step out onto the street to have a cigarette. While I understand the health concerns, it does feel like smokers are being pushed further and further away from society. The ban has also had a significant impact on the hospitality industry, with many pubs and bars experiencing a decline in business since the ban was implemented.
Despite the high costs and strict regulations, smoking remains a popular activity in the UK. But why do people continue to smoke despite the negative consequences? The answer is not as simple as one would think. For many smokers, it is not just the nicotine addiction that keeps them hooked, but it is also the social aspect of smoking. Being a smoker in the UK means being part of a community, a bond formed over shared cigarettes and lighter swapping. It is a way of connecting with others, whether it be during a quick smoke break at work or a night out at a pub. As a smoker, I have made many friends through our shared habit and can strike up a conversation with any fellow smoker I encounter.
On a more personal level, smoking is also a form of stress relief. Having a cigarette can provide a brief escape from the pressures of daily life. It is a moment of tranquility, where one can gather their thoughts and reflect. As a student, I have often turned to cigarettes during times of stress, finding comfort in the familiar ritual. However, these temporary moments of relief come with long-term consequences on both physical and mental health. It is a trade-off that many smokers are willing to make, despite being aware of the risks.
The health consequences of smoking are well-known and heavily publicised in the UK. According to the NHS, smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the UK, with over 78,000 deaths a year attributed to smoking-related illnesses. These illnesses include lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. As a smoker, I am aware of the detrimental effects of smoking on my health, but it is a risk that I am willing to take.
Quitting smoking is not an easy feat. It takes a tremendous amount of willpower and support. The NHS offers free support and resources for individuals who want to quit smoking, including nicotine replacement therapy and counselling. However, quitting smoking is a personal journey, and it is ultimately up to the individual to make the decision to quit. As a smoker, I have attempted to quit numerous times, but the habit always seems to creep back into my life.
In recent years, there has been a rise in popularity of alternative products to cigarettes, such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. These products are marketed as a healthier and more socially acceptable alternative to traditional cigarettes. As a smoker, I have tried both of these products in attempts to cut down on my smoking. While they may be perceived as a safer option, there is still a lack of long-term studies on the effects of these products, and they have not been approved by the NHS as a cessation aid.
In conclusion, cigarettes are a prevalent and somewhat controversial aspect of life in the UK. Despite the high costs, strict regulations, and well-known health risks, smoking remains a significant part of the social fabric in the UK. While the government continues to implement policies to discourage smoking, it ultimately comes down to individual choice and the support of loved ones to make the decision to quit. As a smoker, I am aware of the risks I am taking, but it is a habit that is deeply ingrained in me, and giving it up completely may prove to be a lifelong struggle.