As a smoker in the UK, cigarettes have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. From the early days of sneaking a drag from a friend’s cigarette behind the school cafeteria to now, where I am a full-fledged adult who has to pay for my own addiction, I have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly of cigarettes in the UK. In this article, I will be sharing my personal experience and observations about cigarettes in the UK.
First and foremost, let’s talk about the availability of cigarettes in the UK. It’s no secret that cigarettes are readily available in almost every corner shop and supermarket in the country. As a smoker, this has always been convenient for me. I can simply pop into a shop and purchase a pack, no matter where I am. However, this widespread availability also means that cigarettes are easily accessible to minors. Despite the legal age of purchase being 18, it’s not uncommon to see teenagers smoking on the streets. This begs the question, should there be stricter regulations on the availability of cigarettes?
Speaking of regulations, let’s dive into the packaging of cigarettes in the UK. In 2016, the UK became the second country in the world (after Australia) to introduce plain, standardized packaging for cigarettes. This means that all cigarette packs must be a dull brown color with graphic health warnings covering 65% of the front and back of the pack. Brand names and logos are also banned, and the only differentiation between packs is the name of the brand in a standard font. As a smoker, I have mixed feelings about this. On one hand, I understand the intention behind this law – to discourage smoking and highlight the dangers of it. On the other hand, I can’t help but feel like the government is trying to make smoking as unappealing as possible, which can come across as patronizing to smokers.
Moving on to the cost of cigarettes in the UK, it’s no secret that they are expensive. In fact, the UK has one of the highest cigarette prices in Europe. As a regular smoker, I have definitely felt the impact of this on my bank account. A pack of 20 cigarettes can easily set me back around £12, and I know many people who have quit smoking solely due to the cost. Additionally, the government has raised the price of cigarettes every year for the past decade, to discourage people from smoking. While I do understand the reasoning behind this, it can be frustrating for someone who is already addicted to cigarettes.
Let’s talk about the smoking ban in the UK. In 2007, it became illegal to smoke in enclosed public spaces in the UK. As a result, bars, restaurants, and other public places became smoke-free zones. This was a huge change for both smokers and non-smokers alike. As a smoker, I have to admit that at first, it was difficult to adjust. However, now that it has been over a decade since the ban was introduced, I have gotten used to stepping outside for a smoke break. It also means that non-smokers can enjoy a night out without having to inhale second-hand smoke, which is definitely a positive.
Another aspect of smoking in the UK is the social stigma attached to it. While smoking used to be a social norm, it has become increasingly frowned upon in recent years. I have found that when I am out with friends who don’t smoke, I am often the only one stepping outside for a cigarette. It can make me feel like an outcast at times, but I have come to accept that it’s a habit that is not widely accepted anymore.
Now, let’s talk about the health implications of smoking in the UK. The fact that smoking is detrimental to one’s health is not news to anyone. However, seeing the graphic health warnings on cigarette packs and reading the statistics on smoking-related deaths in the UK can be quite alarming. According to the Office for National Statistics, in 2017, there were an estimated 77,900 deaths attributed to smoking. This is a staggering number, and it makes me think twice about my own smoking habit.
With all that being said, it’s important to note that smoking is a personal choice. As an adult, I have the right to make my own decisions, and smoking is one of them. However, I do believe that as a society, we need to continue the conversation about the dangers of smoking and finding ways to help people quit.
In recent years, there has been a rise in alternative smoking products such as e-cigarettes and vaping. While these products are marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, the research is still ongoing. As a smoker, I have tried these alternatives, but they have not been able to fully satisfy my cravings. However, I do know people who have successfully quit smoking through the use of these alternative products. It’s a personal choice, and ultimately, it’s important to find a method that works for each individual.
In conclusion, cigarettes in the UK are a complex and evolving topic. As a smoker, I have experienced the convenience, the cost, the social stigma, and the health implications of smoking in the UK. However, despite the negative aspects, it’s a habit that I have not been able to kick completely. It’s a personal choice that I am aware comes with its own set of consequences, but as of now, it’s a choice that I continue to make.