Mentholated cigarettes and public health
2011

Understanding Menthol Cigarettes and Consumer Perceptions

Sample size: 213 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Joshua Rising, Lori Alexander

Primary Institution: Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Hypothesis

What role does the marketing of menthol cigarettes play in shaping consumer perceptions?

Conclusion

Menthol cigarettes are often perceived as safer than non-menthol cigarettes, influenced by targeted marketing strategies.

Supporting Evidence

  • Menthol cigarettes are perceived as better for health by some smokers.
  • Marketing of menthol cigarettes is more prevalent in Black/African American communities.
  • Many smokers believe menthol cigarettes are less harsh than non-menthol cigarettes.

Takeaway

This study looks at why people smoke menthol cigarettes and how advertising makes them think these cigarettes are safer.

Methodology

The review summarizes findings from 35 articles related to consumer perceptions and marketing of menthol cigarettes.

Potential Biases

The research may be biased due to reliance on focus groups and retrospective designs.

Limitations

The studies reviewed often had small sample sizes and were limited to specific geographic areas.

Participant Demographics

The study included both youth and adult smokers, with a focus on racial and ethnic subgroups.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.0005

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1617-9625-9-S2

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