National Support for a Menthol Cigarette Sales Ban

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Tobacco Control Policy
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Menthol cigarettes are a significant public health concern due to their appeal and addictiveness.
• Regulatory bodies like the FDA and local governments are considering policies to ban menthol cigarettes.
• Understanding public support is crucial for effective policy implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess current public support for a menthol cigarette ban in the US.
• To examine demographic, regional, and smoking status correlates of this support.
• To inform policymakers and communities on public opinion regarding menthol cigarette regulation.

Main Methods:

• A nationally representative online survey of 2871 adults aged 18-64 was conducted.
• Weighted estimates of policy support were calculated based on demographics, ideology, region, and smoking status.
• Logistic regression analysis identified factors associated with support for a menthol ban.

Main Results:

• Overall, 56.4% of participants supported a ban on menthol cigarette sales.
• Support was higher among women, Hispanic/Latino, African American, and other non-White individuals compared to White individuals.
• Support was also higher among never and former smokers compared to current nonmenthol smokers; 28.5% of current menthol smokers supported a ban.

Conclusions:

• Public support for a menthol cigarette ban is substantial but requires further increase among current menthol smokers.
• Findings provide valuable data for policymakers and communities considering menthol cigarette bans.
• Targeted strategies may be necessary to enhance support within specific demographic and smoking groups.