Tobacco is made from the dried leaves of the tobacco plant. It can be made into cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, snuff, chewing tobacco and shisha. Tobacco contains the stimulant drug nicotine.

What are the effects?

The effects start very quickly and can continue for up to 30 minutes from one cigarette.

First time users often feel dizzy or sick. Regular smokers often say it helps them to concentrate, relax combat boredom and reduce anxiety. Smoking can suppress the appetite, so people often eat less.

What are the problems with cigarettes?

Although some people smoke occasionally, most people become dependent and smoke regularly. If they don't smoke regularly, they may feel restless, irritable and depressed.

Cigarettes are toxic. It contains nicotine, tar, carbon monoxide and heavy metals such as arsenic and lead.

Tobacco kills up to half of its users. It is estimated that there are 74,600 deaths attributable to smoking in the UK (2019). Since 2011, the largest fall in smoking prevalence has been among 18-34 year olds in the UK.

Long term users have a much greater risk of developing lung cancer, heart disease and circulatory problems.

Smoking during pregnancy can damage an unborn child. It can result in low birth weight and other complications.

Breathing in a second-hand smoke causes about 10,000 deaths each year in the UK. Babies, children and anyone with existing health problems are especially susceptible health problems.

Coughs, chest and breathing problems are common among smokers.

Smoking is expensive. 20 cigarettes a day costs about £112 per week.

Stop smoking tips

1. Pick a quit date that will be stress-free.
2. Write down all the reasons you want to quit. Keep the list handy and read it when the cravings start.
3. Build a support network to give up smoking. Tell your friends and family that you have quit.
4. Remove any reminders - get rid of ashtrays, lighters and matches and any remaining cigarettes.
5. Exercise even short walks can reduce cravings.
6. Have healthy snacks and drinks to hand so you’re not tempted to smoke or reach for unhealthy treats.
7. Avoid trigger situations
8. Treat yourself with the money you have saved not buying cigarettes.
9. Try nicotine replacement therapy
10. Use stop smoking services – see below. 

Getting help tp stop smoking

For help with stopping smoking, visit the Wirral Stop Smoking Service website.

Cigarettes and the law

You must be over 18 years to buy cigarettes in the UK. If you are under 16 the police have the right to confiscate your cigarettes.

It is illegal for shops to sell nicotine products including cigarettes and e-cigarettes to persons under 18.

Smoking has been prohibited by law in virtually all enclosed and substantially enclosed workplaces and public places throughout the United Kingdom since July 2007.