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A recent study published online on February 13 in Tobacco Control has linked menthol cigarette use to an increased mortality risk. The research, led by Dr. Priti Bandi from the American Cancer Society in Atlanta, highlights the heightened dangers of menthol-flavored cigarettes compared to their nonmenthol counterparts.
The study analyzed data from a population-based prospective cohort, comprising 969,349 individuals who were enrolled between 1982 and 1983, with six years of mortality follow-up. The researchers examined all-cause and cause-specific mortality risks based on smoking status and the type of cigarette brand (menthol or nonmenthol) used for the longest duration.
According to the findings, there were 4,071 deaths among 73,486 menthol cigarette smokers and 20,738 deaths among 281,680 nonmenthol cigarette smokers. While mortality risks were significantly higher among all current smokers—regardless of cigarette type—compared to never smokers, the study found that quitting substantially reduced these risks for both menthol and nonmenthol users.
Among former smokers, those who had primarily used menthol cigarettes experienced elevated mortality risks compared to those who had smoked nonmenthol cigarettes. The increased risks included:
- 12% higher risk of death from all causes
- 16% higher risk from all cardiovascular diseases
- 13% higher risk from ischemic heart disease
- 43% higher risk from other heart diseases
For current smokers, overall mortality risks were similar between menthol and nonmenthol users. However, individuals who smoked 40 or more cigarettes per day faced an elevated risk. Additionally, among Black smokers, menthol cigarette use was associated with an 88% increased mortality risk from other heart diseases compared to nonmenthol cigarette use.
The study’s authors emphasize that despite well-documented harms related to smoking initiation and reduced cessation rates, menthol cigarettes remain unregulated. They suggest that these findings strengthen the case for implementing stricter regulations on menthol cigarettes both in the United States and globally.
For further details, the study can be accessed in Tobacco Control under the title: Association of menthol-flavoured cigarette smoking with all-cause and cause-specific mortality risk (DOI: 10.1136/tc-2024-059020).
Disclaimer: This article summarizes findings from a published research study. It does not constitute medical advice. Individuals concerned about smoking-related health risks should consult healthcare professionals for personalized guidance.
