Menthol Levels in Cigarettes Manipulated to Keep People Hooked

Big Tobacco Targets 'Vulnerable Populations'

Researchers at Harvard University's Harvard School of Public Health have reported in a new study that big tobacco companies have engineered menthol levels in cigarettes to ensure existing smokers remain hooked, and to capture new smokers.

The study, published in the American Journal of Public Health, found that the tobacco industry marketed its products to what are known within the industry as 'vulnerable populations' consisting of adolescents and young adults "by manipulating sensory elements of cigarettes to promote initiation and dependence." The study goes on to state "Tobacco companies researched how controlling menthol levels could increase brand sales among specific groups." And, "They discovered that products with higher menthol levels and stronger perceived menthol sensations suited long-term smokers of menthol cigarettes, and milder brands with lower menthol levels appealed to younger smokers." The researchers further report that young people are more tolerant of menthol cigarettes compared with non-menthol cigarettes, and that this facilitates the acceptance and tolerability of smoking.

The study cited the following brands of cigarettes: Lorillard's Newport and R. J. Reynolds' Salem Black Label, Salem Green Label, Camel Menthol, Kool, and Kool Milds.

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Published on Jul-17-08