Smoking-related diseases claim the lives of about 45,000 African Americans every year, and most of them (85%) smoke menthol cigarettes.

Menthol tobacco has been marketed to African Americans for decades by tobacco companies. They try to gain influence and win over the community by funding HBCUs, offering scholarships, and sponsoring African American culture, entertainment, and sporting events. It's time for a change.

The reason why menthols are considered more harmful is that people who smoke those brands tend to inhale more deeply and have a harder time quitting smoking.

Menthols and mint are also extremely popular among teenage smokers. More than half of cigarette smokers ages 12 to 17 use menthol cigarettes. It is estimated that 1.6 million African Americans under the age of 18 will become addicted to tobacco, and about 500,000 will die prematurely from a tobacco-related disease. 

Join IBE Summer Celebration and Quit Now Indiana as we continue to support the community and help all Hoosiers live healthy tobacco-free lives. If you or a loved one is ready to break free from tobacco, Quit Now by simply texting READY to 34191 to register for free services from 1.800.Quit.Now.