As I sit outside my local pub, I can’t help but notice the number of people lighting up a cigarette. It’s a common sight in the United Kingdom, where cigarettes have been a part of the culture for decades. But have we ever stopped to think about the impact of cigarettes on our society?

Growing up in the UK, I was bombarded with images of cigarette advertisements glamorizing the smoking lifestyle. It was portrayed as cool and sophisticated, with celebrities and models promoting different brands. As a teenager, I remember thinking that smoking was something I wanted to try, to fit in with the “cool” crowd.

Fast forward to today, and I realize how wrong and dangerous that mindset was. Cigarettes have been proven to cause numerous health issues, from lung cancer to heart disease. They are also one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in the UK, with 78,000 people dying annually from smoking-related illnesses.

Despite these facts, smoking is still a widespread habit in the UK. According to the Office for National Statistics, in 2019, 15.5% of people over the age of 18 smoked in the UK, with a higher percentage among the younger population. This shows that, despite the numerous campaigns and warnings, smoking is still prevalent in the UK.

One of the reasons for this could be the availability and accessibility of cigarettes in the UK. Unlike other countries, where cigarettes can only be purchased from designated shops, in the UK, they are readily available in supermarkets, newsagents, and convenience stores. This makes it easier for people to pick them up whenever they want, without much thought.

Another factor that contributes to the popularity of cigarettes in the UK is their affordability. While the price of cigarettes has increased over the years due to government taxes, they are still relatively cheap compared to other countries. This makes it easier for people to continue the habit, as it doesn’t become a financial burden.

But the real question is, why do people continue to smoke even when they know the risks?

For some, it may be a habit that they find difficult to break. The nicotine found in cigarettes is highly addictive, making it challenging for smokers to quit. Nicotine addiction can also have a psychological aspect, with smokers turning to cigarettes as a source of comfort or stress relief.

Others may see smoking as a way to fit in or relieve peer pressure. As mentioned earlier, I personally fell into this trap as a teenager, and it wasn’t until I educated myself on the dangers of smoking that I was able to quit.

Moreover, cigarettes are often associated with moments of pleasure and relaxation. People may turn to cigarettes as a way to de-stress after a long day or socialize with friends. Unfortunately, the short-term satisfaction of smoking comes at a much higher long-term cost.

The impact of cigarettes extends beyond the individual smoker. Second-hand smoke, also known as passive smoking, is just as harmful to those who are exposed to it. This is especially concerning in public places, where non-smokers may be unknowingly inhaling toxic chemicals from someone else’s cigarette.

That is why it is important for the UK government to continue implementing and enforcing strict smoking regulations. In 2007, the UK became the first country in the world to ban smoking in enclosed public spaces, such as bars and restaurants. This has led to a decrease in the number of smokers and has undoubtedly helped to reduce the health risks for non-smokers.

However, there are still gaps in the regulations. For example, smoking is still allowed in outdoor areas, and there is a lack of enforcement in certain establishments, making it easier for people to smoke even in designated non-smoking areas.

Moreover, there is the issue of tobacco companies aggressively marketing their products and targeting vulnerable groups, such as young people and low-income individuals. These tactics need to be monitored and regulated to prevent the spread of smoking among these groups.

But it’s not just about regulation; it’s also about providing resources and support for those who want to quit smoking. The NHS offers smoking cessation services, including counseling and medication, to help people kick the habit. These services are crucial for individuals who want to quit but find it challenging due to nicotine addiction.

Furthermore, there needs to be a cultural shift in how we view smoking. As a society, we need to stop glamorizing and normalizing smoking. The media also plays a significant role in this, as there are still movies and TV shows that portray smoking in a positive light, influencing young viewers.

In conclusion, despite the decline in the number of smokers in the UK, it is still a prevalent and harmful habit in our society. The government, tobacco companies, and individuals all have a role to play in addressing this issue. We must continue to educate ourselves and others on the dangers of smoking and work towards creating a smoke-free UK.