As I sit outside the pub with a cold beer in one hand and a pack of cigarettes in the other, I can’t help but reflect on the role that cigarettes play in British culture. For some, they are a source of comfort and relaxation, while for others, they symbolize rebellion and defiance. But regardless of our personal opinions and beliefs, the fact remains that cigarettes are deeply ingrained in British society.
The first thing that comes to mind when I think of cigarettes in the UK is how readily available they are. Walk into any corner shop, newsstand, or petrol station and you’ll find shelves lined with cigarettes in all different brands and variations. This accessibility has made it easy for smokers to feed their addiction, but has also contributed to the normalisation of smoking as a socially acceptable habit.
On a typical night out in the UK, it’s not uncommon to see groups of friends huddled outside pubs and clubs, sharing a smoke and engaging in lively conversations. In fact, in many social circles, smoking is seen as a way to bond and connect with others. This can be especially true for younger generations who view cigarettes as a rebellious act and a symbol of independence.
But while smoking may be seen as a social activity, this doesn’t negate the harmful effects it has on both individuals and society as a whole. According to the NHS, smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the UK, with more than 78,000 deaths attributed to it each year. It is also estimated that smoking costs the NHS around £2 billion annually in healthcare costs.
I can’t deny that I am also a smoker, and I’ve often been asked why I continue to smoke despite the known health risks. For me, it boils down to addiction. I know smoking is bad for me, but it’s become such a routine and ingrained habit in my life that I find it difficult to quit. And with the vast availability and affordability of cigarettes, it’s easy to fall back into the habit even after trying to quit.
But it’s not just the individual health consequences that need to be considered when it comes to cigarettes. The impact on the environment is also significant. Cigarette butts are the most littered item in the world, with an estimated 4.5 trillion discarded each year. Not only are they an eyesore, but they also pose a threat to wildlife and the environment.
In recent years, the UK government has implemented various initiatives to reduce smoking rates, such as banning smoking in public places and introducing plain packaging for cigarettes. These efforts have had some success, with smoking rates in the UK declining from 28% in 1997 to 14.7% in 2019. However, there is still a long way to go in combatting the societal acceptance and normalization of cigarettes.
One of the most controversial aspects of the UK’s relationship with cigarettes is the role of the tobacco industry. Tobacco companies have a long history of using marketing tactics to target and manipulate vulnerable populations, such as young people and those who are socio-economically disadvantaged. And despite their claims of responsible marketing, the fact remains that they are profiting from a product that causes harm and suffering to millions.
But despite the negative impacts, there are also those who argue for the individual freedom and choice to smoke. They argue that it’s a personal decision, and as long as smokers are aware of the risks, it’s up to them. However, this argument neglects the fact that smoking is not just a personal choice, but also a societal issue. The cost of healthcare and the impact on the environment are borne by everyone, not just the individual smoker.
As I finish my beer and toss my cigarette butt into the bin, I can’t help but think about the future of cigarettes in the UK. Will they continue to be a staple in British culture, or will they eventually become a thing of the past? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – the conversation around cigarettes in the UK is far from over.