Overview

• A study estimates that a nationwide ban on menthol cigarettes could result in 4.44 million American ex-smokers.
• About 50% of menthol smokers would switch to non-menthol brands, while 24% would quit smoking altogether.
• Menthol bans have shown to be more effective at the national level, with lower smoking rates compared to local or state bans.
• The tobacco industry's resistance includes lobbying and public relations campaigns against the ban.
• Menthol cigarettes are particularly appealing to children and disproportionately consumed by Black Americans and the LGBTQ+ community.