To the editor:

Menthol cigarettes are among the most addictive and highly marketed types of tobacco products, and represent a particular threat to low-income rural communities and people of color. Finding support to help quit is crucial to saving lives and improving health outcomes for North Country residents.

The most recent data from the New York state Department of Health, released in a report titled “Menthol is Not Just a Flavor: Aggressive Marketing to Racial and Ethnic Minorities and Lower Income Communities Fuels Persistent Disparities in Menthol Cigarette Use,” highlights the severe negative impact of years of aggressive marketing by the tobacco industry. In short, among adults statewide who smoke, nearly half — 49 percent — self-report that they usually smoke menthol cigarettes. Those rates are highest among people who identify as Black and Hispanic. For adults who smoke, menthol cigarette use was significantly higher in households reporting total income of less than $26,000 annually.

Menthol cigarettes have historically — and erroneously — been marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, when the reality is the opposite. The flavor and cooling sensation make them easier to start, more addictive and much harder to quit.

The Heart Network works with healthcare providers across the North Country to help people connect with evidence-based practices proven to help people quit smoking successfully. Current smokers of menthol cigarettes who need help are encouraged to speak with their providers — just five minutes of counseling can double your chances of success. We also promote the NY SmokeFree, a free service for New York residents that offers coaching and resources. Call 1-866-NY-QUITS, text QUITNOW to 333888 or visit nysmokefree.com for more information.

To connect with additional local resources to help you cut menthol cigarettes out of your life for good, feel free to reach out to The Heart Network directly: email me at bcarnright@heartnetwork.org any time.

Sincerely,

Brielle Carnright

Tobacco Project Coordinator

The Heart Network