Health and Environment at Risk: Why Experts Are Calling for a UK Ban on Cigarette Filters

Experts are sounding the alarm that cigarette filters not only fail to protect smokers but also contribute significantly to plastic pollution. A recent opinion piece in the journal Addiction suggests that the UK government should consider banning these filters in a new tobacco bill aimed at improving public health and the environment.

Dr. Katherine East, who contributed to the piece, explains that filters create a false sense of safety. “They don’t actually reduce harmful substances. In fact, they may make smoking more harmful because smokers tend to inhale deeper when using them, which can lead to more toxic exposure,” she says. Additionally, filters release microplastics into the lungs, raising serious health concerns.

Currently, around 6 million adults in the UK smoke, although this number has been decreasing over the years. Smokers often use filters, thinking they offer health benefits. However, polls show that a significant majority mistakenly believe filters provide protection against smoking’s health risks.

Dr. East emphasizes that filters can actually enhance the negative effects of smoking. By making cigarettes easier to smoke, they could lead to more severe health issues, including lung cancer.

The proposed tobacco bill aims to gradually increase the legal smoking age, but experts argue it should also address the issue of cigarette filters. They propose that any ban should be accompanied by educational campaigns to inform the public about the real dangers of filters.

Hazel Cheeseman, CEO of Action on Smoking and Health, highlights the deceptive marketing behind filters, stating, “They are a tool that keeps people smoking, preserving profits for the tobacco industry.”

Education is crucial. Public awareness efforts could help dispel the myths surrounding filters and draw attention to how consumers have been misled for years.

Overall, as more smokers adopt rolling their own cigarettes to save money, it’s essential to re-evaluate the role of filters in smoking habits. Transitioning away from using filters could significantly impact health and reduce plastic waste.

For further reading on the dangers of smoking and tobacco regulations, you can check out resources from the World Health Organization.

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