​In a large nationwide study led by ACS, researchers found mortality risks for smoking menthol cigarettes were higher than non-menthol cigarettes for death from any cause and cardiovascular diseases, especially heart diseases. Higher risks were evident in individuals who had quit smoking and at high smoking intensities. Black participants currently smoking menthol brands had high increases for some heart diseases with an 88% elevated mortality risk compared to non-menthol cigarettes. The report also showed quitting smoking substantially reduced health risks from both cigarette types. The findings are published today in the journal Tobacco Control.

“Menthol in cigarettes is an established public health threat due to its effect on increasing smoking uptake and reducing smoking cessation,” said Dr. Priti Bandi​, scientific director, risk factors and screening research and lead author of the study. “With these results additionally showing unique mortality effects, it’s time for menthol cigarettes to be regulated to help save lives. In the U.S. and globally in many low- and middle-income countries, the share of menthol cigarettes in the market is substantial.”

“Continuing to smoke, whether menthol or non-menthol cigarettes, is the most harmful,” added Bandi. “These findings reiterate that quitting all cigarette types is the only safe option to reduce your risk of disease and dying prematurely.”

“Today’s study proves once again why policymakers need to enact comprehensive policies that help individuals who currently use quit and prevent youth and young adults from becoming addicted to tobacco products,” said Lisa A. Lacasse, president of ACS CAN.  

“People who smoke deserve barrier-free access to comprehensive cessation services and support through quitlines, their health care providers, and state and federal programs. ACS CAN will continue to work to increase funding for tobacco prevention and cessation programs, end the sale of menthol cigarettes and all other flavored tobacco products, and enact other proven tobacco control policies, including comprehensive smoke-free laws and regular and significant tax increases on all tobacco products.”

Other ACS researchers contributing to the study include ​Christina Newton, Zheng Xue, Dr. Samuel Asare, Dr. Minal Patel, Dr. Farhad Islami, Dr. Nigar Nargis, Dr. Alpa Patel, Dr. Ahmedin Jemal, Dr. J. Lee Westmaas, and senior author Ryan Diver​.

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