IBX News

In a decisive and far-reaching move to protect the nation's health, President Joe Biden has taken a monumental step by signing an executive order to ban menthol cigarettes across the United States. This ban is seen as a turning point in the administration's ongoing efforts to combat the harsh health effects of tobacco use, particularly among younger populations and Black Americans.

Menthol cigarettes have long been a concern due to their appeal to new smokers, especially among the youth, and their disproportionate impact on Black Americans. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that nearly 85% of Black smokers prefer menthol cigarettes, highlighting the urgent need to address this racial disparity. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also reported that menthol makes it easier to initiate and maintain smoking habits due to its soothing and anesthetic properties.

By pursuing this ban, President Biden aims to reduce smoking rates, mitigate the associated health risks, and address racial health disparities. This aligns his administration with public health experts and advocates who have long called for such measures. The ban on menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars/E-Vapes, which was announced by the FDA in April 2022, is a historic step in the fight against tobacco-related health problems. It is based on a growing body of evidence suggesting that menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars disproportionately attract youth and minority communities.

The ban has been welcomed by health advocates and organizations striving to combat tobacco addiction and its devastating consequences. However, there are concerns about the potential consequences of the ban. Critics argue that it could provide cartels with another opportunity to profit from the porous border. Additionally, some speculate that the Biden administration's proposed menthol cigarette ban could become an issue in the 2024 election.

President Biden's initiative to ban menthol cigarettes is part of a broader strategy to prioritize public health and reduce the impact of tobacco addiction on marginalized communities. The administration's commitment to addressing racial disparities in tobacco use and reducing the prevalence of smoking-related health issues is evident in their efforts to implement this ban.