The Menthol Issue
Smoking is still the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S
45,000 Black Americans die each year from tobacco- related diseases.
85% of Black smokers use menthols, while less than 30% of Whites smokers use menthols.
More than 50% of kids who smoke use menthol cigarettes.
Young people who initiate using menthol cigarettes are more likely to become addicted and become long-term daily smokers.
People with lower levels of income are more likely to smoke menthol cigarettes.
70% of Black adults who smoke want to quit.
The FDA’s menthol ban would prohibit the tobacco industry from manufacturing, distributing, and selling menthols, NOT people from possessing or smoking them.
The ban could save hundreds of thousands of lives.
Tobacco companies have purposely targeted African American communities for decades with this deadly product.
Will I be arrested for smoking menthols? No, the ban ends the sale and production of menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars.
Where can I get help to quit? In Wisconsin, you can get FREE help by clicking here or calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW
My Menthol Story
Some people started smoking menthol cigarettes in middle or high school. Others lost a loved one to menthols. “My Menthol Story” is a series that shines a light on the many ways that menthol tobacco has impacted our communities.