Reactions to using other nicotine and tobacco products instead of menthol cigarettes: A qualitative study of people who smoke menthol cigarettes in the United States.

Introduction:
This text provides an analysis of a study examining the reactions of menthol cigarette smokers in the United States when using other nicotine and tobacco products as alternatives. The study aims to understand the potential impact of a menthol cigarette ban and the possible switch to other tobacco products.

Key Points:

* The study recruited adults who smoke menthol cigarettes and completed a behavioral economic assessment of the effects of menthol cigarette price increases on other tobacco products purchasing.
* Participants were asked to use the purchased products for three days and then discuss their purchasing decisions and experiences in semi-structured interviews.
* Factors influencing purchasing decisions included flavor, price, prior use of other tobacco products, interest in trying new products, and perceived ability to satisfy nicotine cravings.
* Participants reported positive experiences using e-cigarettes, including the refreshing menthol flavor, ability to use in places where cigarettes are prohibited, and convenience of use.
* Reactions to smoking non-menthol cigarettes were mixed, with some participants finding them acceptable but less satisfying, while others reported negative reactions such as tasting like cardboard.
* Reactions to smoking little cigars/cigarillos were mostly unfavorable, but participants said it gave them something to light.
* Multiple considerations may affect switching to other tobacco products in light of pending menthol cigarette regulation, including the availability of menthol-flavored alternatives and satisfaction with the alternative products.

Main Message:
The study suggests that in the event of a menthol cigarette ban, menthol-flavored e-cigarettes may be a viable substitute for some menthol cigarette smokers. However, the availability of menthol-flavored e-cigarettes is currently limited due to concerns about youth appeal. Public health messaging that clearly articulates the potential benefits and relative risks of e-cigarettes for adult smokers while acknowledging the harms of youth vaping will be critical for balancing harm reduction and prevention.

Denlinger-Apte RL, Strahley AE, Lockhart DE, et al. Reactions to using other nicotine and tobacco products instead of menthol cigarettes: A qualitative study of people who smoke menthol cigarettes in the United States. Preventive medicine reports. 2023;34:102228. doi:10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102228