As a resident of the UK, I have been surrounded by cigarettes for most of my life. From seeing them advertised in supermarkets, to the lingering smell of smoke on the streets, it has become a part of the British culture. However, as I have grown older and become more informed about the dangers of smoking, my views on cigarettes have drastically changed. In this article, I will delve into the world of cigarettes in the UK and explore the history, laws, and attitudes surrounding this highly controversial topic.
History of Cigarettes in the UK:
The history of smoking in the UK dates back to the 16th century when Spanish sailors introduced tobacco to Europe. At first, it was used mostly for medicinal purposes, but it soon became a popular recreational activity among the upper class. By the 19th century, the production and consumption of cigarettes started to increase with the Industrial Revolution, making it more affordable and accessible to the masses.
In the early 20th century, the government began to recognize the potential dangers of smoking and started to regulate its production and advertising. In 1918, the sale of cigarettes to minors was banned, and in the 1950s, warnings about the health risks of smoking were added to cigarette packaging. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that the true effects of smoking were brought to light with the release of the famous “Smoking Kills” campaign by the National Health Service (NHS).
Current Laws and Regulations:
In the UK, there are strict laws and regulations in place to control the production, sale, and consumption of cigarettes. Under the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations of 2016, it is illegal to sell cigarettes to anyone under the age of 18, and it is also required to ask for identification if the customer appears to be under the age of 25.
In addition, all cigarette packaging must display graphic warning labels that cover at least 65% of the front and back of the pack. These images, such as images of diseased lungs or people with smoking-related illnesses, are meant to deter people from smoking. The regulations also prohibit flavored cigarettes, such as menthol, which are seen as more appealing to young people.
Furthermore, advertising and promotion of cigarettes are heavily restricted in the UK. Tobacco companies are not allowed to advertise on television, radio, billboards, or through any other medium that may reach a large audience. Even sponsorship of sporting events by tobacco companies is banned.
Attitudes Towards Smoking:
Despite the efforts of the government to discourage smoking, it is estimated that 14.9% of the population in the UK still smokes. This is a significant decrease from the 51% of smokers in 1974, but it still remains a prevalent issue. The attitude towards smoking has also shifted in recent years, with a growing number of people choosing to quit smoking or never start in the first place.
One of the factors that have influenced this change in attitude is the increased awareness of the health risks associated with smoking. According to the NHS, smoking is responsible for around 79,000 deaths each year in the UK, with many health problems such as heart disease, lung cancer, and stroke being directly linked to smoking. In addition, non-smokers are also at risk as secondhand smoke can cause the same health issues in those who are exposed to it on a regular basis.
Another factor that has contributed to the changing attitudes towards smoking is the rise of vaping. Vaping, also known as electronic cigarettes, has become a popular alternative to traditional cigarettes. It is seen as less harmful than smoking and has been proven to be an effective tool for quitting smoking. However, there are still concerns about the safety of vaping, and it is not without its own set of regulations.
Impact of Cigarettes on Society:
Aside from the obvious health implications, cigarettes have a significant impact on society in the UK. The government spends millions of pounds each year on healthcare costs related to smoking, and it also faces lost productivity due to smoking-related illnesses. In addition, smoking also contributes to environmental damage, as discarded cigarette butts are a problem in waste management and littering.
The smoking ban, which came into effect in 2007, has also had a significant impact on society. It prohibits smoking in all enclosed public spaces, including restaurants, bars, and offices. This has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising it for protecting non-smokers from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke, while others see it as infringing on personal freedom.
Moreover, the tobacco industry has a considerable influence on society and the economy. British American Tobacco and Imperial Brands, two of the largest tobacco companies in the world, are based in the UK and contribute to the economy through both taxes and employment. However, there have been concerns over the methods used by these companies to market and sell their products, especially in developing countries.
My Personal Views on Cigarettes:
As someone who grew up in a household where both of my parents were smokers, I have seen firsthand the damaging effects of cigarettes. My mother, who has been smoking since her teenage years, has suffered from health problems such as chronic bronchitis and high blood pressure. It breaks my heart to see her struggle with these issues, knowing that they could have been prevented if she had not picked up the habit.
Due to my personal experience, I have never been tempted to try smoking myself. However, I do understand that smoking can be a difficult habit to break, and there are many factors that can contribute to someone choosing to start smoking. In my opinion, the best way to combat smoking is through education and support for those trying to quit.
In conclusion, cigarettes have played a significant role in the history and culture of the UK, but their impact on society has been far from positive. Strict laws and regulations have been put in place to control the production and consumption of cigarettes, but it is ultimately up to individuals to make the decision to quit smoking for the betterment of their health and society as a whole.