In its latest report, the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids says the tobacco industry has deliberately targeted the Black community, including its young people, with menthol cigarettes and other products for more than 60 years.
According to the new data, 85% of African-American smokers choose the menthol variety, which is found to be more addictive and more difficult to quit than regular cigarettes. And, as the Campaign pointed out, even as smoking is considered a risk factor for COVID-19, menthol cigarettes and other flavored tobacco products continue to be heavily advertised.
The new report calls on the Food and Drug Administration and federal, state and local lawmakers to eliminate the sale of the tobacco products highlighted.
The Campaign also called for expanding the availability and promotion of programs to help smokers quit, especially in Black communities.
Black Women's Health Imperative Chief Policy Officer and Counsel Tammy Boyd discussed the latest information with KRLD's Chris Sommer.
