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Menthol Facts

Menthol tobacco products have had a disproportionate impact on African American communities for decades. Understanding the facts is the first step toward protecting your health and your community.
Menthol cigarette with a green filter band

1. Menthol Makes It Easier to Start

Menthol creates a cooling sensation that reduces the harshness of tobacco, making it easier for new users—especially youth—to begin smoking.

Chemical structure diagram of the menthol molecule

2. Menthol Makes It Harder to Quit

The same cooling effect allows for deeper inhalation and stronger nicotine absorption, increasing addiction and making quitting more difficult.

Man relaxing in a chair at home

3. Disproportionate Impact on African Americans

Nearly 85–90% of African American smokers use menthol cigarettes, compared to about 30% of white smokers.

Man listening to music in a lounge chair

4. Targeted Marketing for Decades

Tobacco companies have intentionally marketed menthol products in Black communities through ads, sponsorships, and neighborhood placement.

Stethoscope resting beside a chalkboard reading Risk Factor

5. Higher Risk of Tobacco-Related Disease

Because menthol users often smoke longer and inhale more deeply, they face increased risks of lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke.

Group of young adults laughing together outdoors

6. Youth Are Especially Vulnerable

Menthol products are often the first tobacco product used by young people, increasing the likelihood of lifelong addiction.

Menthol cigarettes scattered on a wooden surface with fresh mint leaves

7. Menthol Is Not Safer

Many people believe menthol cigarettes are less harmful—but they carry the same or greater health risks as non-menthol cigarettes.

Patient receiving oxygen through a mask from a health care worker

8. Menthol and Health Disparities

Higher menthol use contributes to the disproportionate burden of tobacco-related illness and death in African American communities.

Illustration of a cigarette crossed out inside a red prohibition symbol

9. Flavored Tobacco Keeps Addiction Going

Menthol is one of the few flavors still widely available, and it continues to play a major role in keeping people addicted to nicotine.

Close-up of hands breaking a cigarette in half

10. Quitting Menthol Is Possible

Even though menthol can make quitting harder, support systems like the Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW) and community programs can help you succeed.

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