In a troubling development, the tobacco industry’s aggressive actions are hindering efforts to reduce tobacco use, particularly among minority communities. The American Lung Association’s “State of Tobacco Control” 2025 report reveals that industry pressure has stalled crucial policies aimed at preventing tobacco-related deaths and diseases.
Former President Biden’s failure to finalize rules ending the sale of menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars marks a significant setback. This decision, influenced by intense industry lobbying, will continue to disproportionately affect historically marginalized communities. Nearly 80% of Black smokers use menthol cigarettes, a stark increase from just 5% before targeted marketing began in the 1950s.
The report highlights the industry’s targeted marketing strategies in Black, LGBTQ+, and other minority communities. These tactics, including advertising, free samples, and donations to community organizations, have successfully created and maintained disparities in tobacco use among these groups.
At the state level, the tobacco industry has become more aggressive, pursuing legislation to protect its profits. Efforts include attempts to exempt certain products from taxation and create state directories of e-cigarettes that favor larger companies. These actions have slowed progress on proven tobacco control policies in most states.
Despite these challenges, some positive developments emerged. Maryland made significant strides by increasing cigarette taxes and expanding smokefree workplace laws. However, no state passed laws to end the sale of flavored tobacco products, despite campaigns in several states.
The report underscores the urgent need for lawmakers to resist industry pressure and implement policies that can effectively reduce tobacco use and its devastating health impacts, especially on minority communities. As tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable death in America, addressing these disparities is crucial for public health equity.
See: “State of Tobacco Control” (January 29, 2025)
