The Rise of Menthol Cigarette Sales Among Black Smokers

Menthol cigarettes, particularly brands like Newport, have become immensely popular among black smokers, while being less favored by white smokers. This is partially due to targeted marketing tactics employed by the tobacco industry, which emphasized the coolness and perceived health benefits of menthol cigarettes. The industry conducted thorough studies of black neighborhoods, identifying influential community members who could promote their products. Black publications, such as Ebony, played a role in promoting menthol cigarettes as a symbol of black achievement and upward mobility. These marketing strategies were successful, with menthol cigarettes making up a large portion of cigarette sales among black smokers. However, the health consequences have been dire, with black smokers being more likely to suffer from smoking-related illnesses and face higher mortality rates. This has led to calls for the banning of menthol cigarettes, a proposal that has faced opposition and controversies tied to industry influence and potential impacts on black communities.