More addictive than the classics, perceived less harmful by young people, menthol cigarettes are often singled out by many studies. This new study proves that it would also promote a stronger and longer inhalation of the smoke.
Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center in the United States have found that the menthol aroma paralyzes the action of nicotine receptors. When you smoke, the nicotine receptors get activated and cause irritation in the airways. But, with menthol cigarettes, smokers who are less irritated swallow the smoke more deeply.
“The additive menthol is ‘a potential analgesic and / or a counter-irritant to the sensory nerves,’ the researchers explain. It therefore desensitizes the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
“In addition to desensitizing the receptors in the lungs and the respiratory tract, menthol seems to slow down, or prevent, the recovery of sensitivity after a first attack, which probably puts the receptors in a state of insensitivity”, analyzes Dr. Gérard Ahern, one of the main authors of this study.
Increased danger with menthol cigarettes
This study confirms an alarming report from the Food and Drug Administration published in July 2013 which stated that “menthol cigarettes pose an even greater public health risk than other cigarettes ”. Indeed, the FDA has thus noticed that the mint taste similar to that of a candy brings the feeling to young smokers that these menthol cigarettes are less dangerous than the others. “They start earlier and quickly smoke a lot because this menthol taste is particularly attractive.”
As part of the fight against smoking, the European Union has banned the sale of flavored cigarettes since May 19, 2014. Indeed, more than 70% of European smokers start to smoke before the age of 18. Sweet and flavored flavors like mint tobacco tend to appeal to younger people and make them forget about the danger of smoking.
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Menthol cigarettes make you even more addicted than others
Tobacco: menthol cigarettes more difficult to give up
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