BOSTON, Jul 17, 2008 (UPI via COMTEX) -- The Harvard School of Public Health
alleges the tobacco industry manipulated the menthol content of cigarettes to
hook young smokers.
Researchers said a study of internal industry documents and independent lab
tests showed cigarette makers adjusted levels of menthol "to create a milder
experience for the first-time smoker."
The study is published online in advance of the American Journal of Public
Health's September 2008 issue.
"For decades, the tobacco industry has carefully manipulated menthol content not
only to lure youth but also to lock in lifelong adult customers," co-author
Howard Koh said Wednesday in a news release. The report said tobacco companies
determined that milder brands with lower menthol levels appealed to younger
smokers.
The study comes as Congress considers a bill that would allow the U.S. Food and
Drug Administration to regulate additives such as menthol.
URL: www.upi.com
Copyright 2008 by United Press International