As a UK resident, I have witnessed the impact of cigarettes on both individuals and society as a whole. Despite efforts to decrease smoking rates, cigarettes remain a prevalent and controversial issue in the UK.
First and foremost, it’s important to acknowledge that cigarettes are a major health hazard. According to the NHS, smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the UK. This fact alone should be enough to deter individuals from picking up this deadly habit. Yet, despite countless warnings and campaigns, cigarettes continue to be a popular choice among many.
One of the main reasons for the popularity of cigarettes in the UK is its accessibility. Cigarettes can be purchased at almost any corner store, making it convenient for smokers to indulge in their addiction. In addition, cigarettes come in various price ranges, making it affordable for people from all economic backgrounds.
Growing up, I was exposed to the glamorization of smoking through various forms of media. Advertisements and movies portrayed smoking as a cool, rebellious act. As a teenager, I was curious and wanted to fit in with my peers, so I succumbed to peer pressure and tried cigarettes. Little did I know, that one puff would turn into a lifelong addiction.
Aside from its addictive nature, cigarettes also have a significant impact on an individual’s appearance. As a smoker, I have experienced first-hand the effects of cigarettes on my skin, teeth, and hair. The toxins in cigarettes not only make your skin look dull and aged, but they also stain your teeth and leave a lingering smell in your hair. Many smokers try to compensate for these effects by using whitening products and masking the smell with perfumes, but the damage is irreversible.
Moreover, cigarettes also have a severe impact on the environment. The act of smoking alone contributes to air pollution, with an estimated 137,000 tonnes of smoke emitted each year in the UK. In addition, cigarette butts, which are not biodegradable, are one of the most littered items in the world. These butts eventually end up in our waterways, posing a threat to wildlife and the ecosystem as a whole.
Despite all the negative effects of cigarettes, the UK remains one of the highest tobacco-consuming countries in Europe. This is evident in the high number of smokers seen in public spaces such as parks, outside office buildings, and even near schools. It is disheartening to see individuals of all ages, including young adults and even teenagers, smoking without any regard for their health or the health of those around them.
One of the major factors that contribute to this high consumption of cigarettes is the addictive nature of nicotine. Nicotine is a chemical found in tobacco products that is highly addictive, making it difficult for individuals to quit once they start. As a smoker, I can attest to the fact that quitting smoking is not an easy task. It requires immense willpower and support from loved ones.
Fortunately, in recent years, the UK government has taken steps to decrease the smoking rates in the country. The smoking ban in public places, which was implemented in 2007, has been successful in reducing exposure to second-hand smoke. Additionally, the introduction of graphic warning labels on cigarette packages has brought more awareness to the dangers of smoking.
In 2019, the UK government announced its ambitious plan to make the UK smoke-free by 2030. This plan includes measures such as increasing the minimum age of buying cigarettes to 21, introducing stricter regulations on e-cigarettes, and expanding access to stop-smoking services. While these steps are commendable, it is uncertain whether they will be enough to achieve the goal of a smoke-free UK in the next decade.
As a regular smoker, I have often been confronted by non-smokers and even former smokers, asking why I continue to smoke despite being aware of all the risks. My response has always been that smoking is a personal choice, and as adults, we have the freedom to make our own choices, whether they are harmful or not. However, I cannot deny the fact that my personal choice has a negative impact on others, and it is a selfish act.
In conclusion, the issue of cigarettes in the UK is complex and multifaceted. It is not just a matter of individual choice, but also a public health concern and an environmental issue. As a society, we need to take a collective responsibility to address this issue and decrease smoking rates. It is time for individuals to recognize the harmful effects of cigarettes and make a conscious effort to quit. And it is time for the government to continue implementing stricter measures to make the UK a healthier, smoke-free country for current and future generations.