A new study published in the journal Tobacco Control reveals that smoking menthol cigarettes poses a higher mortality risk compared to non-menthol cigarettes, highlighting significant health disparities among different racial and ethnic groups in the United States. The research, conducted by the American Cancer Society (ACS), analyzed data from nearly a million participants over six years.
The study found that individuals who smoked menthol cigarettes had an increased risk of death from all causes and cardiovascular diseases, particularly heart conditions. This elevated risk was especially pronounced among those who had quit smoking and those with high smoking intensities.
Black participants currently smoking menthol brands faced a staggering 88% higher mortality risk for some heart diseases compared to those smoking non-menthol cigarettes. This finding underscores the disproportionate impact of menthol cigarettes on minority communities, exacerbating existing health disparities.
The tobacco industry has historically targeted marketing of menthol cigarettes towards Black communities, contributing to higher rates of menthol cigarette use among Black smokers. Approximately 85% of Black smokers use menthol cigarettes, compared to just 30% of white smokers.
Dr. Priti Bandi, scientific director of risk factors and screening research at ACS and lead author of the study, emphasized the public health threat posed by menthol in cigarettes. The research reaffirms that quitting smoking substantially reduced health risks associated with both menthol and non-menthol cigarettes. However, among former smokers, those with a history of menthol cigarette use still faced higher mortality risks compared to non-menthol smokers.
These findings highlight the critical need for comprehensive tobacco control policies, including increased funding for prevention and cessation programs, and the elimination of menthol cigarettes from the market. Such measures are essential to address the persistent health disparities affecting minority communities and to improve overall public health outcomes.
See: “Menthol-Flavored Cigarette Smoking Increases Mortality Risk vs. Non-Menthol Cigarettes” (February 13, 2025)
