Menthol Cigarettes Increase Risk of Stroke

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) has concluded that people who smoke menthol cigarettes are at greater risk of suffering from a stroke than those who smoke regular cigarettes. Menthol is the last cigarette flavor additive still permitted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Among the 5167 smokers who participated in NHANES, those who reported they preferred smoking menthol cigarettes were more than twice as likely to suffer a stroke as those who preferred regular cigarettes. The risk was particularly high for women and non-African American smokers.

When the FDA's authority to regulate cigarettes was expanded in 2009, the agency banned almost every type of flavoring additive. They chose not to regulate menthol flavoring, claiming there was not yet enough scientific evidence that it posed a special risk to smoker's health. In a March 2011 review by an FDA advisory panel, however, it was determined that menthol does make cigarettes more dangerous, largely by making them more addictive.

Evidence also suggests that menthol has a unique and damaging effect on the cerebrovascular system (the blood vessels of the brain). Not only does the menthol flavoring appear to raise the risk of strokes, something about the chemical makeup of the additive also increases carotid artery stiffness. Despite evidence of these effects, the FDA still allows mentholated cigarettes to be sold to the general public.

When the FDA allows harmful products to be sold on the market, individuals are bound to get hurt. If you have been injured as a result of a dangerous product like menthol cigarettes, you may be entitled to compensation. A product injury lawyer from our law firm is ready to review your case and determine the best possible strategy to assist you in pursuing a claim. It is very important to hold negligent manufacturing companies accountable for their actions, especially if their products have caused serious harm or wrongful death onto the users. Contact a product injury attorney from Arnold & Itkin today for a free consultation. We have recovered millions of dollars in the past for our clients and would like to help you resolve your claim today!