Menthol Cigarettes – Just as Bad, or Worse

Doctors have wondered why African Americans have higher rates of smoking-related death and illness than seen in other races. One possible cause is their higher rates of menthol cigarette smoking. Scientists from San Francisco have just completed a study in which they measured the exposure to menthol and non-mentholated cigarettes in relation to quitting behavior, coronary calcification, and changes in respiratory function over a 10-year period.

Both types of cigarettes were equally harmful with respect to the development of atherosclerosis (coronary calcification) and decreased respiratory function. This was measured on a ‘per pack-year’ basis, i.e. the results were adjusted for differing periods of smoking. Menthol cigarettes were, however, harder to quit smoking, according figures of attempts to quit and success rates.

In this study, 89% of African Americans preferred menthol, compared to 29% of other races. This may account for the recognized higher rates of cigarette-related death and illness in African Americans. Clearly, it’s not cool to smoke Kool®. Even though they don’t contain fiberglass.

Comments

[asythiste]

Just wanted to say hello all. This is my first post.

I expect to learn a lot here.

[val]

There is nothing more disgusting and deadly than sitting in your home, with the windows open, enjoying your day, then all of a sudden having someone’s disgusting second hand smoke come in.. I used to smoke a pack a day that is until i started using my nicorette inhaler. I read on "kiwi drug" news that smokers can still get the same amount of nicotine as a cigarette. Proven fact I have been a non-smoker for 4 months now