1
|
Brown N, Shin H, Smiley SL. Perceptions of the Harm of Cigarettes, Mental Health, and Quality of Life Among Transgender Adults Who Smoke Menthol Cigarettes: Results from Wave 5 of the Population Assessment for Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:1618. [PMID: 39767458 PMCID: PMC11675804 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21121618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2024] [Revised: 11/22/2024] [Accepted: 11/27/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2025]
Abstract
Sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals in the United States are at greater risk for combustible tobacco use and mental health problems compared to heterosexual and cisgender individuals. National data comparing associations of menthol cigarette use and mental health among transgender and cisgender individuals in the United States are lacking. The goals of the current study were to (1) characterize transgender and cisgender individuals who smoke menthol cigarettes, and (2) investigate cross-sectional associations between gender identity, harm perceptions of cigarettes, mental health experiences, and quality of life. Data were drawn from Wave 5 of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study (2018-2019). A total of 3989 cisgender (mean [SD] age, 40.47 [0.32] years) and transgender (mean [SD] age, 38.36 [0.09] years) participants who reported current (past 30-day) menthol cigarette use were included in the analysis. Comparing transgender to cisgender groups, significant differences were found in associations between harm perceptions of cigarettes (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.07; 95% CI: 0.02-0.28) and reported depression (AOR 4.57; 95% CI: 1.36-15.33). Collectively, these findings provide evidence that transgender adults who smoke menthol cigarettes are less likely than cisgender adults who smoke menthol cigarettes to perceive smoking as harmful to health and more likely to report recent experiences of depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nichelle Brown
- Division of Health Promotion and Behavioral Science, School of Public Health, College of Health and Human Services, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Dr., San Diego, CA 92182, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mazhar L, Foulds J, Allen SI, Veldheer S, Hrabovsky S, Yingst JM. Likely Response to a Hypothetical Menthol Cigarette Ban Among Adults with Mood Disorders Who Smoke Menthol Cigarettes and Have No Current Plans to Quit Smoking. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:1477. [PMID: 39595743 PMCID: PMC11594018 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21111477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2024] [Revised: 10/31/2024] [Accepted: 11/04/2024] [Indexed: 11/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited evidence on how the United States Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) proposed ban on menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars will impact individuals with mood disorders who smoke menthol cigarettes. This study aimed to evaluate how individuals with mood disorders who smoke menthol cigarettes might respond to a hypothetical ban on menthol cigarettes, explore the reasons for their current use, and examine how these reasons are associated with participants' characteristics. METHODS Study data were collected at baseline from adults (18+ years) with mood disorders who participated in a randomized controlled trial evaluating the impact of gradual nicotine reduction. Participants were individuals who smoked and had no plan to quit in the next six months. They reported demographics and tobacco consumption patterns, interest in quitting, and responded to a hypothetical question on a potential ban on menthol cigarettes. The question asked participants which actions they would most likely take if menthol-flavored cigarettes were banned. Means and frequencies were used to describe the sample. Logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with each reason for menthol use (less harmful, better flavor, less harsh on the throat, and less harsh on the chest). RESULTS Participants (n = 77) were an average age of 42.5 (SD 12.5) years, 61% (n = 47) were female, 68.8% (n = 53) identified as White, and 5.2% (n = 4) identified as Hispanic. On average, participants reported currently smoking 18.1 (SD 9.9) cigarettes per day and had smoked for 23.9 (SD 13.6) years. About 58.4% of participants (n = 45) expressed their intention to switch to non-menthol cigarettes, 19.5% (n = 15) intended to transition to a different type of tobacco product, and 22.1% (n = 17) intended to quit smoking entirely without substitution. The most endorsed reason for using menthol cigarettes was better flavor (89.6%, n = 69/77), followed by less harshness on the throat (41.3%, n = 31/75) and chest (40%, n = 30/75), and the belief that they were less harmful than non-menthol cigarettes (24%, n = 18/75). Older age was associated with the belief that menthol cigarettes were less harmful (OR = 1.06; p = 0.02). CONCLUSION Among individuals with mood disorders and who smoke menthol cigarettes and have no plans to quit smoking, 22.1% may try to quit smoking if a menthol ban is implemented, while the majority (58.4%) stated that they would switch to non-menthol cigarettes. As the reasons for using menthol cigarettes included perceived lower harm, there is a need for targeted public awareness campaigns to correct misconceptions about the harms of menthol cigarettes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laraib Mazhar
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (J.F.); (S.I.A.); (S.V.); (J.M.Y.)
| | - Jonathan Foulds
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (J.F.); (S.I.A.); (S.V.); (J.M.Y.)
| | - Sophia I. Allen
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (J.F.); (S.I.A.); (S.V.); (J.M.Y.)
| | - Susan Veldheer
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (J.F.); (S.I.A.); (S.V.); (J.M.Y.)
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | - Shari Hrabovsky
- Penn State Nese College of Nursing, University Park, PA 16802, USA;
| | - Jessica M. Yingst
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (J.F.); (S.I.A.); (S.V.); (J.M.Y.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ackary SJ, Cabrera PJD, Santiago AJA, Amul GGH. An analysis of flavor descriptors on tobacco products in the Philippines: Regulatory implications and lessons for low- and middle-income countries. Global Health 2024; 20:67. [PMID: 39252089 PMCID: PMC11385504 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-024-01072-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Historically, tobacco companies have used flavored tobacco products to enhance the appeal of tobacco consumption, encourage initiation and experimentation of tobacco use, and contribute to sustained tobacco use. While flavored tobacco products are regulated in several countries, there is no existing regulation on flavored tobacco products in the Philippines, specifically for cigarettes and cigars. This study aims to update evidence on the flavored tobacco product landscape in the Philippines by assessing both the flavor descriptors and flavor imagery featured on cigarette and cigar packaging. RESULTS We collected 106 cigarette and cigar products from four major cities in the National Capital Region, Balanced Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Of these 106 cigarette and cigar products, 62 (58.49%) had flavor descriptors. Three crushable capsule products did not feature any flavor descriptor but were included for flavor imagery examination. We identified five categories of flavor descriptors: menthol, concept descriptors, tobacco, beverages, and other flavors. Out of 62 packs, ten featured more than one flavor descriptor on the packaging. Menthol flavor descriptors comprised the majority of flavor descriptors. Imagery and other graphic elements closely resonate with and enhance the flavor descriptors found on these packs. CONCLUSIONS This study aimed to update the evidence on the flavored tobacco product landscape in the Philippines and address their absence of regulation. Regulating flavored tobacco products requires a comprehensive policy approach complemented by complete enforcement. Flavor substances, flavor descriptors, and flavor imagery must be regulated altogether; however, it is ideal to enforce a ban on flavored tobacco products in compliance with the WHO FCTC, to which the Philippines is a signatory. Policymakers should consider plain packaging as an intervention to eliminate the appeals associated with flavored tobacco products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Ackary
- School of Government, Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, Philippines.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Alkhlaif Y, Shelton KL. Stimulus mediation, specificity and impact of menthol in rats trained to discriminate puffs of nicotine e-cigarette aerosol from nicotine-free aerosol. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024; 241:1527-1538. [PMID: 38519818 PMCID: PMC11269472 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06579-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE It is unclear if e-cigarettes have reduced abuse liability relative to traditional cigarettes, especially when considering advanced devices which deliver nicotine more efficiently. Translatable and predictive animal models are needed to addresses this question. OBJECTIVES Our goal was to explore the subjective stimulus effects of e-cigarettes by training rats to discriminate puffs of nicotine aerosol from vehicle aerosol using an aerosol delivery system designed to model e-cigarette use patterns in humans. METHODS Rats were trained to discriminate between ten, 10 s puffs of aerosol generated from 3 mg/ml nicotine e-liquid and nicotine-free e-liquid using a food-reinforced operant procedure. Following acquisition, tests were conducted to determine the specificity of the nicotine aerosol stimulus as well as the impact to the stimulus effects of nicotine resulting from the addition of menthol to e-liquid. RESULTS Rats learned the nicotine aerosol puff vs vehicle puff discrimination in a mean of 25 training sessions. Injected nicotine fully substituted for the stimulus effects of nicotine aerosol. The stimulus effects of nicotine aerosol were blocked by the nicotinic receptor antagonist mecamylamine. The nicotinic receptor partial agonist, varenicline as well as the stimulant d-amphetamine substituted more robustly for nicotine aerosol puffs than did the NMDA antagonist, ketamine. Menthol enhanced the stimulus effects of nicotine aerosol without altering nicotine blood plasma levels. CONCLUSIONS Nicotine aerosol puffs can function as a training stimulus in rats. The stimulus effects were CNS-mediated and receptor specific. Menthol appears to enhance the stimulus effects of nicotine aerosol through a pharmacodynamic rather than pharmacokinetic mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin Alkhlaif
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 410 North 12Th Street, Room 746D, Richmond, VA, 23298-0613, USA
| | - Keith L Shelton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 410 North 12Th Street, Room 746D, Richmond, VA, 23298-0613, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Oliveira da Silva AL, Lempert LK, Glantz SA. More than a "characterizing flavor": Menthol at subliminal levels in tobacco products. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 261:111346. [PMID: 38870568 PMCID: PMC11251543 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In addition to imparting flavor, menthol in menthol-flavored cigarettes enhances nicotine addiction and increases experimentation, initiation, and progression to regular smoking. Menthol can be added to cigarettes at perceptible levels (so-called flavored cigarettes or characterized flavored cigarettes) or non-perceptible levels (subliminal). Our objective was to understand the reasons that tobacco companies use subliminal menthol. METHODS We identified previously secret internal tobacco company documents dated 1955-2012 in the Truth Tobacco Industry Documents archive on menthol at subliminal levels. RESULTS Beginning in at least the 1950s, tobacco companies used subliminal menthol to compensate the flavor loss caused by filters, reduce smoke harshness, reduce dryness, and increase smoke coolness. Varying menthol concentrations were considered to help convert people who smoke non-menthol to menthol brands, possibly because people who use menthol cigarettes have more harship quitting than people who use non-menthol cigarettes. CONCLUSIONS Menthol is an important additive beyond its function as a "characterizing flavor." Tobacco companies use menthol in "non-menthol" cigarettes at subliminal (non-perceptible by the people who smoke cigarettes) levels to improve taste, make them easier to smoke and facilitate initiation, and possibly convert people who smoke non-menthol cigarettes to menthol cigarettes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andre Luiz Oliveira da Silva
- Tobacco Control Office, Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency, Rio de Janeiro - Brazil; Center for Tobacco Control Research & Education, University of California, San Francisco - USA.
| | - Lauren K Lempert
- Center for Tobacco Control Research & Education, University of California, San Francisco - USA
| | - Stanton A Glantz
- Center for Tobacco Control Research & Education, University of California, San Francisco - USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bold KW, Kong G, O'Malley SS. The Scientific Basis for the Regulation of Flavors in Tobacco Products. Annu Rev Clin Psychol 2024; 20:381-406. [PMID: 38346292 PMCID: PMC11446566 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-080921-075624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Effective tobacco policies are important for reducing the harm of tobacco use and can have a broad impact at the population level. This review provides an overview of how clinical science can inform tobacco policies with a focus on policies related to flavored tobacco products, using menthol cigarettes as an illustrative example. Specifically, this review summarizes the role of flavors in tobacco use and the history of regulation of flavored tobacco products by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), provides an overview of clinical research methods used to contribute to the scientific evidence to inform FDA tobacco policies, discusses key findings related to menthol tobacco products using these methods, and proposes future directions for clinical research. As the tobacco marketplace continues to evolve with new products and flavor chemicals, ongoing clinical science will be essential for establishing evidence-based policies to protect public health and reduce tobacco-related health disparities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Krysten W Bold
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA;
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Grace Kong
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA;
| | - Stephanie S O'Malley
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lin W, Alfheeaid HA, Alasqah I, Alqarawi N, Alotaibi SA, Alribdi FF, Almutairi S, Lima MJ, Teixeira-Lemos E, Raposo A. Dietary Patterns among Smokers and Non-Smokers: Findings from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017-2018. Nutrients 2024; 16:2035. [PMID: 38999783 PMCID: PMC11243715 DOI: 10.3390/nu16132035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Diet behavior and nutrition are critical for maintaining health and improving quality of life. Cigarette smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Poor dietary choices, such as excessively frequenting restaurants, consuming ready-to-eat foods from grocery stores, and ingesting ultra-processed foods (like frozen meals and pizzas), can adversely impact health. Despite this, research comparing dietary behaviors between smokers and non-smokers is limited. Using data from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey 2017-2018, we analyzed diet behavior based on smoking status. Our findings reveal that smokers had a significant increase (90%) in the frequency of consuming frozen meals/pizzas in the past 30 days compared to non-smokers (coefficient: 1.9; 95% CI: 1.4, 2.6; p-value < 0.001). Additionally, over 70% of participants, regardless of their smoking status, were unaware of MyPlate, a nutritional guide created by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to encourage Americans to make healthier food choices. There is an urgent need to increase public awareness of MyPlate and promote a better understanding of healthy dietary behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenxue Lin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Hani A. Alfheeaid
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Food, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ibrahim Alasqah
- Department of Community, Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia; (I.A.); (N.A.)
- School of Health, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - Nada Alqarawi
- Department of Community, Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia; (I.A.); (N.A.)
| | - Saad Abdullah Alotaibi
- Department of Public Health, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia;
| | | | - Sulaiman Almutairi
- Department of Health Informatics, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Maria João Lima
- CERNAS Research Centre, Polytechnic University of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (M.J.L.); (E.T.-L.)
| | - Edite Teixeira-Lemos
- CERNAS Research Centre, Polytechnic University of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (M.J.L.); (E.T.-L.)
| | - António Raposo
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yang Y, Lindblom EN, Ward KD, Salloum RG. Would banning menthol cigarettes, flavored cigars, and flavored e-cigarettes prompt users to seek illicit channels for obtaining them in the United States? Prev Med 2024; 183:107954. [PMID: 38621422 PMCID: PMC11088487 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2024.107954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Banning flavors in tobacco and nicotine products may reduce youth initiation and prompt quit attempts but such bans may lead to illicit markets. We examined how likely current users would be to seek flavored products from illicit channels under various ban scenarios. METHODS Cross-sectional surveys of 2552 current users of menthol cigarettes or flavored cigars and 2347 users of flavored e-cigarettes were conducted between 2021 and 2022 in the United States. For each ban scenario, respondents reported if they would have intentions to seek the banned flavored products from any illicit channels and identified the specific illicit channel they would consider. Logistic regressions were used to estimate how the likelihood of having intentions to seek illicit channels was associated with demographics, ban scenarios, and status of tobacco use. RESULTS Under various ban scenarios, 24-30% of people who smoked said they would seek illicit channels to obtain the banned products compared with 21-41% of dual users and 35-39% of users of flavored e-cigarettes. Online retailers were favored by people who smoked while users of flavored e-cigarettes favored local retailers. Heavy users were more likely to say they would try illicit channels. Under bans restricting more types of flavored tobacco products, users would be less likely to try illegal channels. CONCLUSIONS A significant proportion of users of flavored tobacco and nicotine products would not reject using illicit banned products. Tailored programs are needed to apply to the groups with a higher risk of seeking illicit channels for banned products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Yang
- School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN 38152, United States of America.
| | - Eric N Lindblom
- O'Neill Institute for National & Global Health Law, Georgetown University Law Center, Washington, DC 20001, United States of America
| | - Kenneth D Ward
- College of Population Health, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States of America
| | - Ramzi G Salloum
- Department of Health Outcomes and Policy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Buettner-Schmidt K, Steward K, Goniewicz ML, Schaeffer Fraase K, Orr M, Miller DR. Development of a Flavor Ingredient Wheel Linking E-Liquid Additives to the Labeled Flavor of Vaping Products. TOXICS 2024; 12:372. [PMID: 38787151 PMCID: PMC11125894 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12050372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
E-liquids contain combinations of chemicals, with many enhancing the sensory attractiveness of the product. Studies are needed to understand and characterize e-liquid ingredients, particularly flavorings, to inform future research and regulations of these products. We identified common flavor ingredients in a convenience sample of commercial e-liquids using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. E-liquid flavors were categorized by flavor descriptors provided on the product packaging. A Flavor Ingredient Wheel was developed to link e-liquid flavor ingredients with flavor categories. An analysis of 109 samples identified 48 flavor ingredients. Consistency between the labeled flavor and ingredients used to produce such flavor was found. Our novel Flavor Ingredient Wheel organizes e-liquids by flavor and ingredients, enabling efficient analysis of the link between ingredients and their flavor profiles and allowing for quick assessment of an e-liquid ingredient's flavor profile. Investigating ingredient profiles and identifying and classifying commonly used chemicals in e-liquids may assist with future studies and improve the ability to regulate these products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Buettner-Schmidt
- School of Nursing, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; (K.S.F.); (M.O.); (D.R.M.)
| | - Katherine Steward
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA;
| | - Maciej L. Goniewicz
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA;
| | - Kolby Schaeffer Fraase
- School of Nursing, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; (K.S.F.); (M.O.); (D.R.M.)
| | - Megan Orr
- School of Nursing, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; (K.S.F.); (M.O.); (D.R.M.)
| | - Donald R. Miller
- School of Nursing, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; (K.S.F.); (M.O.); (D.R.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Dimova H, Schroeder MJ, Pickworth WB, Wang J, Oniyide O, Viray LC, Smith C, Koszowski B, Jackson KJ. The Effects of Changes in Cigarette Menthol Content on Acute Nicotine Pharmacology and Smoking Topography. Nicotine Tob Res 2024:ntae102. [PMID: 38728416 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntae102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Menthol influences the appeal and addictiveness of cigarette smoking, however the data regarding menthol's effects on nicotine pharmacokinetics (PK) and smoking topography are inconsistent. This study investigated the impact of different cigarette menthol levels on nicotine pharmacology and smoking topography in current menthol smokers. AIMS AND METHODS The study was a double-blind, randomized, four-period, crossover study to investigate the effects of smoking cigarettes with varying menthol content (0, 3, 6, and 12 mg menthol) on nicotine PK, smoking topography, and subjective effects in current menthol smokers. Each experimental session consisted of a prescribed use session, followed by 145 min of no smoking and a 1-h ad libitum smoking session. Serial blood samples were collected; smoking topography was recorded using CReSS Lab topography device. RESULTS There was no significant effect of menthol on nicotine PK after prescribed smoking of cigarettes with varying menthol contents. During ad libitum smoking, there was significantly smaller total puff volume and puff duration in the 12 mg menthol condition compared to other menthol conditions. Subjective and sensory measures indicated significantly higher overall positive ratings for the 3 mg and 6 mg menthol cigarettes compared to the 0 mg menthol cigarette; the 12 mg menthol cigarette was less liked and harsher than the 3 mg condition. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that menthol, at concentrations reflecting the marketplace (3-6 mg), contributes to positive subjective smoking experiences among menthol smokers, but does not have a significant effect on nicotine PK or smoking topography in an acute laboratory setting. IMPLICATIONS While our data indicate that varying menthol content does not have a significant impact on nicotine's pharmacological effects under acute exposure conditions, these data highlight the contribution of menthol's flavor and sensory effects to product preference and positive smoking experiences, which facilitate repeated experimentation, progression to regular use, and subsequent dependence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hristina Dimova
- Food and Drug Administration, Center for Tobacco Products, Office of Science, Calverton, MD, USA
| | - Megan J Schroeder
- Food and Drug Administration, Center for Tobacco Products, Office of Science, Calverton, MD, USA
| | | | - Jia Wang
- Food and Drug Administration, Center for Tobacco Products, Office of Science, Calverton, MD, USA
| | - Olusola Oniyide
- Food and Drug Administration, Center for Tobacco Products, Office of Science, Calverton, MD, USA
| | - Lauren C Viray
- Battelle Center for Public Health Research, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carson Smith
- Battelle Center for Public Health Research, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Kia J Jackson
- Food and Drug Administration, Center for Tobacco Products, Office of Science, Calverton, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gotti C, Clementi F, Zoli M. Auxiliary protein and chaperone regulation of neuronal nicotinic receptor subtype expression and function. Pharmacol Res 2024; 200:107067. [PMID: 38218358 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are a family of pentameric, ligand-gated ion channels that are located on the surface of neurons and non-neuronal cells and have multiple physiological and pathophysiological functions. In order to reach the cell surface, many nAChR subtypes require the help of chaperone and/or auxiliary/accessory proteins for their assembly, trafficking, pharmacological modulation, and normal functioning in vivo. The use of powerful genome-wide cDNA screening has led to the identification and characterisation of the molecules and mechanisms that participate in the assembly and trafficking of receptor subtypes, including chaperone and auxiliary or accessory proteins. The aim of this review is to describe the latest findings concerning nAChR chaperones and auxiliary proteins and pharmacological chaperones, and how some of them control receptor biogenesis or regulate channel activation and pharmacology. Some auxiliary proteins are subtype selective, some regulate various subtypes, and some not only modulate nAChRs but also target other receptors and signalling pathways. We also discuss how changes in auxiliary proteins may be involved in nAChR dysfunctions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Gotti
- CNR, Institute of Neuroscience, Milan, Italy; NeuroMi Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, Italy.
| | - Francesco Clementi
- CNR, Institute of Neuroscience, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Zoli
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology (CfNN), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Lin W. Disparities in Healthcare and HBV Vaccination by Smoking Status: Findings from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017-2018. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 12:41. [PMID: 38200947 PMCID: PMC10779267 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12010041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Cigarette smokers face greater challenges in accessing healthcare compared with non-smokers. In the US, approximately 2.2 million individuals are chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). I used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017-2018 to investigate the association between smoking status (current, former, and never smoker) and different health outcomes, including healthcare accessibility, HBV vaccination, general health condition, and health insurance. Multivariable logistic regressions were used to analyze healthcare disparity by smoking status. I found that current smokers had 40% higher odds (AOR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1, 1.8) of lacking routine healthcare access compared with non-smokers. Regardless of smoking status, I observed a high rate of HBV non-vaccination among all participants. Specifically, 64% of current smokers, 67% of former smokers, and 57% of non-smokers had not received a single dose of HBV immunization. My study sheds light on the persisting gaps in healthcare access, particularly for smokers, and the urgent need to promote awareness and vaccination against hepatitis B.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenxue Lin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sahu R, Shah K, Malviya R, Paliwal D, Sagar S, Singh S, Prajapati BG, Bhattacharya S. E-Cigarettes and Associated Health Risks: An Update on Cancer Potential. Adv Respir Med 2023; 91:516-531. [PMID: 37987300 PMCID: PMC10660480 DOI: 10.3390/arm91060038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
The potential cancer risk associated with electronic-cigarette (e-cigarette) use is ongoing and remains a subject of debate. E-Cigarettes work by heating a liquid that usually contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. When the liquid is heated, users inhale an aerosol into their lungs. While e-cigarettes are generally considered less harmful than traditional tobacco products, they still contain potentially harmful chemicals, which can damage DNA and lead to cancer. Several studies have investigated the potential cancer risk associated with e-cigarette use, while other studies have suggested that e-cigarette aerosol may contain carcinogenic chemicals that could increase the risk of lung and bladder cancer in humans. However, these studies are limited in their scope and do not provide conclusive evidence. Overall, the long-term cancer risk associated with e-cigarette use remains uncertain, more research is needed to fully understand the potential risks and benefits of e-cigarettes. However, this review will allow the investigator to get more recent updates about e-cigarettes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Sahu
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida 201310, India; (R.M.); (D.P.); (S.S.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura 281406, India;
| | - Kamal Shah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura 281406, India;
| | - Rishabha Malviya
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida 201310, India; (R.M.); (D.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Deepika Paliwal
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida 201310, India; (R.M.); (D.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Sakshi Sagar
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida 201310, India; (R.M.); (D.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Sudarshan Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
| | - Bhupendra G. Prajapati
- Shree S. K. Patel College of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ganpat University, Kherva 384012, India
| | - Sankha Bhattacharya
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM’S NMIMS Deemed-to-Be University, Shirpur 425405, India;
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bautista M, Mogul AS, Fowler CD. Beyond the label: current evidence and future directions for the interrelationship between electronic cigarettes and mental health. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1134079. [PMID: 37645635 PMCID: PMC10460914 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1134079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Electronic cigarette use has dramatically increased over the last decade. With this recent technological development and wide range of constituents in various products, putative adverse effects on the brain and body have been largely unexplored. Here, we review current evidence linking electronic nicotine cigarette use with potential health consequences and provide evidence supporting an association between drug use and depression in humans. We also examine the biological effects of individual constituents in electronic cigarette aerosols, which include labeled ingredients, such as propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, nicotine, and flavorants, as well as unlabeled ingredients found in the aerosols, such as carbonyls and heavy metals. Lastly, we examine the effects of electronic cigarette use on endogenous metabolism via changes in cytochrome P450 enzymes, which can thereby impact therapeutic outcomes. While the current evidence offers insight into the potential effects of electronic cigarette use on biological processes, further studies are necessary to determine the long-term clinical relevance of aerosol inhalation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christie D. Fowler
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
White AM, Goden AB, Rudy AK, Bajwa HK, Guy MC, Hood KB, Cobb CO, Barnes AJ. Responses of African American Individuals Who Use Menthol Cigarettes to Potential Flavored Tobacco Bans. Am J Prev Med 2023; 64:898-901. [PMID: 36624010 PMCID: PMC10200722 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2022.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has proposed new product standards regarding the availability of menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars in the U.S. However, it is unclear whether limiting characterizing flavors in cigarettes and cigars as proposed, or across all tobacco products, produces differential effects on the tobacco use behaviors of African American/Black individuals who use menthol cigarettes. This study assessed whether limiting characterizing flavors in combusted products only or across all tobacco products produces differential impacts on the tobacco use behaviors of African American/Black individuals who use menthol cigarettes. METHODS Adult African American/Black individuals who use menthol cigarettes in the U.S. were recruited through Qualtrics (n=373) and in Richmond, VA (n=206) for an online experiment from September 2021 to August 2022. Participants reported how their tobacco use behaviors would change under 3 scenarios: maintenance of the status quo, limited flavor ban (ban characterizing flavors in cigarettes and cigars), and comprehensive flavor ban (ban characterizing flavors in all tobacco products). Seemingly unrelated regressions compared differences in expected responses to policy scenarios (p<0.05). RESULTS Both flavor ban scenarios resulted in higher quitting intentions for cigarettes and all tobacco products than the status quo (p<0.05). The comprehensive ban resulted in greater intentions to quit all tobacco products and lower intentions to switch to certain alternative products (e.g., E-cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, heated tobacco products) than the limited ban (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS African American/Black individuals who use menthol cigarettes appear more likely to quit smoking if characterizing flavors in combusted products (e.g., menthol cigarettes) are banned, regardless of if characterizing flavors are available in noncombusted alternative tobacco products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Augustus M White
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia; Department of Health Behavior and Policy, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia.
| | - Akira B Goden
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Alyssa K Rudy
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Harlean K Bajwa
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Mignonne C Guy
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Kristina B Hood
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia; Department of Psychology, College of Humanities & Sciences, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Caroline O Cobb
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia; Department of Psychology, College of Humanities & Sciences, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Andrew J Barnes
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia; Department of Health Behavior and Policy, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Brown JL, Galiatsatos P, Neptune E. Banning Menthol Cigarette Manufacture and Sale in the United States: Countering Tobacco Industry-driven Misperceptions. Ann Am Thorac Soc 2023; 20:785-787. [PMID: 36638773 DOI: 10.1513/annalsats.202210-855ps] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Brown
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland; and
| | - Panagis Galiatsatos
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Enid Neptune
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mills SD, Golden SD, O'Leary MC, Logan P, Hassmiller Lich K. Using systems science to advance health equity in tobacco control: a causal loop diagram of smoking. Tob Control 2023; 32:287-295. [PMID: 34535509 PMCID: PMC9466654 DOI: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2021-056695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Develop and use a causal loop diagram (CLD) of smoking among racial/ethnic minority and lower-income groups to anticipate the intended and unintended effects of tobacco control policies. METHODS We developed a CLD to elucidate connections between individual, environmental and structural causes of racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in smoking. The CLD was informed by a review of conceptual and empirical models of smoking, fundamental cause and social stress theories and 19 qualitative interviews with tobacco control stakeholders. The CLD was then used to examine the potential impacts of three tobacco control policies. RESULTS The CLD includes 24 constructs encompassing individual (eg, risk perceptions), environmental (eg, marketing) and structural (eg, systemic racism) factors associated with smoking. Evaluations of tobacco control policies using the CLD identified potential unintended consequences that may maintain smoking disparities. For example, the intent of a smoke-free policy for public housing is to reduce smoking among residents. Our CLD suggests that the policy may reduce smoking among residents by reducing smoking among family/friends, which subsequently reduces pro-smoking norms and perceptions of tobacco use as low risk. On the other hand, some residents who smoke may violate the policy. Policy violations may result in financial strain and/or housing instability, which increases stress and reduces feelings of control, thus having the unintended consequence of increasing smoking. CONCLUSIONS The CLD may be used to support stakeholder engagement in action planning and to identify non-traditional partners and approaches for tobacco control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah D Mills
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Shelley D Golden
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Meghan C O'Leary
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Paige Logan
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kristen Hassmiller Lich
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
White AM, Barnes AJ, Garner W. Racial/ethnic differences in the association between menthol cigarette use and mental illness among adults who smoke in the United States. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2023:1-21. [PMID: 37052141 PMCID: PMC10570396 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2023.2196645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2012-2018) were used to characterize the association between menthol cigarette use and indicators of Any (AMI) and Serious (SMI) Mental Illness among adults who smoke in the United States. In general, people who smoke menthol cigarettes were more likely to have AMI (aOR = 1.123 [1.063-1.194]) than people who smoke non-menthol cigarettes, but not SMI (aOR = 1.065 [0.966-1.175]). However, among non-Hispanic African American/Black people who smoke, those that used menthol cigarettes had lower adjusted odds of both AMI (aOR = 0.740 [0.572-0.958]) and SMI (aOR = 0.592 [0.390-0.899]) than their counterparts who used non-menthol cigarettes. Results suggest there may be race/ethnicity-specific drivers of the association between menthol cigarette use and mental illness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Augustus M. White
- Department of Health Behavior and Policy, Virginia
Commonwealth University, 830 E. Main St., 9 Floor, Richmond, VA, 23219
USA
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Virginia
Commonwealth University, 100 W. Franklin St., Suite 200, Richmond, VA, 23220
USA
| | - Andrew J. Barnes
- Department of Health Behavior and Policy, Virginia
Commonwealth University, 830 E. Main St., 9 Floor, Richmond, VA, 23219
USA
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Virginia
Commonwealth University, 100 W. Franklin St., Suite 200, Richmond, VA, 23220
USA
| | - William Garner
- Department of Public Health, University of North Texas at
Dallas, 7300 University Hills Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75241, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Allem JP, Donaldson SI, Vogel EA, Pang RD, Unger JB. An Analysis of Twitter Posts About the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Menthol Ban. Nicotine Tob Res 2023; 25:962-966. [PMID: 36534973 PMCID: PMC10077934 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntac290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned characterizing flavors in cigarettes in 2009, this initial ban exempted menthol. After examining numerous reports on the adverse health effects of menthol cigarettes, the FDA proposed a menthol ban in April 2022. This study analyzed Twitter data to describe public reaction to this announcement. AIMS AND METHODS Posts containing the word "menthol" and/or "#menthol" were collected from April 21, 2022 to May 5, 2022 from Twitter's Streaming Application Programming Interface (API). A random sampling procedure supplied 1041 tweets for analysis. Following an inductive approach to content analysis, posts were classified into one or more of 11 themes. RESULTS Posts discussed the FDA announcement (n = 153, 14.7%), racial discrimination (n = 101, 9.7%), distrust in government (n = 67, 6.4%), inconsistencies between policies (n = 52, 5.0%), public health benefits (n = 42, 4%), freedom of choice (n = 22, 2.1%), and health equity (n = 21, 2.0%). Posts contained misinformation (n = 20, 1.9%), and discussed the potential for illicit markets (n = 18, 1.7%) and the need for cessation support (n = 4, 0.4%). 541 (52.0%) tweets did not fit into any of the prescribed themes. CONCLUSIONS Twitter posts with the word "menthol" commonly discussed distrust in government and mentioned racial discrimination. Findings demonstrated the possibility of near real-time Twitter monitoring of public opinion on a menthol ban. These data may be valuable for designing tobacco control health communication campaigns in the future. IMPLICATIONS The U.S. FDA proposed a ban on menthol cigarettes in April 2022. This study's content analyzed Twitter posts over a 2-week period to understand the public's response to the proposed menthol ban. Twitter posts with the word "menthol" often discussed distrust in government and mentioned racial discrimination. Findings demonstrated the possibility of near real-time Twitter monitoring of public opinion of regulatory action. Findings underscore the need to educate the public about the potential health benefits of banning menthol from cigarettes, particularly for populations that experience tobacco-related health disparities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jon-Patrick Allem
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Scott I Donaldson
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Erin A Vogel
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Raina D Pang
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer B Unger
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Shi Z, Wang AL, Fairchild VP, Aronowitz CA, Lynch KG, Loughead J, Langleben DD. Addicted to green: priming effect of menthol cigarette packaging on brain response to smoking cues. Tob Control 2023; 32:e45-e52. [PMID: 34599084 PMCID: PMC8971144 DOI: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2021-056639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mentholated tobacco cigarettes are believed to be more addictive than non-menthol ones. Packaging of most menthol cigarette brands includes distinctive green hues, which may act as conditioned stimuli (ie, cues) and promote menthol smoking. To examine the cue properties of menthol cigarette packaging, we used a priming paradigm to assess the effect of packaging on the neural substrates of smoking cue reactivity. We hypothesised that menthol packaging will exert a specific priming effect potentiating smoking cue reactivity in menthol compared with non-menthol smokers. METHODS Forty-two menthol and 33 non-menthol smokers underwent functional MRI while viewing smoking and neutral cues. The cues were preceded (ie, primed) by briefly presented images of menthol or non-menthol cigarette packages. Participants reported craving for cigarettes in response to each cue. RESULTS Menthol packaging induced greater frontostriatal and occipital smoking cue reactivity in menthol smokers than in non-menthol smokers. Menthol packaging also enhanced the mediation by neural activity of the relationship between cue exposure and cigarette craving in menthol but not non-menthol smokers. Dynamic causal modelling showed stronger frontostriatal-occipital connectivity in response to menthol packaging in menthol compared with non-menthol smokers. The effects of non-menthol packaging did not differ between categories of smokers. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate heightened motivational and perceptual salience of the green-hued menthol cigarette packaging that may exacerbate menthol smokers' susceptibility to smoking cues. These effects could contribute to the greater addiction severity among menthol smokers and could be considered in the development of science-based regulation and legal review of tobacco product marketing practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhao Shi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - An-Li Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Catherine A Aronowitz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kevin G Lynch
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - James Loughead
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Daniel D Langleben
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Annenberg Public Policy Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Parms TA, Valverde R, Park-Lee E, Graham-Glover BS, Cunningham CS, Sawdey MD, Cullen KA. Symptoms of tobacco dependence among middle and high school tobacco users - Data from the 2019-2020 National Youth Tobacco Survey. Addict Behav 2023; 137:107537. [PMID: 36332518 PMCID: PMC9712249 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Previous studies have indicated that youth who use tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco, demonstrate dependence symptoms. However, the tobacco marketplace has expanded dramatically in recent years, and few studies have examined dependence symptoms among youth who use novel products. This study combined 2019-2020 National Youth Tobacco Survey data to report the prevalence and determinants of tobacco dependence symptoms among U.S. middle and high school current (past 30-day) tobacco users. METHODS Prevalence estimates were calculated to examine dependence outcomes and other covariates by user groups (single product users and multiple product users). Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent predictors of tobacco dependence among current users of cigarettes, cigars (regular cigars, cigarillos, and little cigars), e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, hookah, pipe tobacco, bidis, and smokeless tobacco products (chew, snuff, dip, snus, and dissolvables). RESULTS Among current tobacco users, 15.7 % (95 % CI: 14.2-17.3) reported wanting to use tobacco within 30 min of waking and 28.3 % (95 % CI: 26.3-30.5) reported strong cravings for tobacco in the past 30 days. Nearly-two-thirds of current users were single product users, of which 80.5 % reported using e-cigarettes. Reporting of dependence symptoms was generally associated with multiple product use, higher frequency of use, earlier initiation age, and use of flavored products. CONCLUSIONS Among U.S. adolescents, a considerable amount of current tobacco product users, even infrequent users, reported symptoms of dependence. These findings highlight the continued importance of prevention strategies for youth tobacco experimentation and progression to regular use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany A Parms
- Office of Science, Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | - Roberto Valverde
- Office of Science, Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | - Eunice Park-Lee
- Office of Science, Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | - Bria S Graham-Glover
- Office of Science, Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | - Colin S Cunningham
- Office of Science, Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | - Michael D Sawdey
- Office of Science, Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, United States.
| | - Karen A Cullen
- Office of Science, Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Grigson PS, Hobkirk AL, Grigson PS, Hobkirk AL. Addiction III: From mouse to man. Brain Res Bull 2023; 193:22-26. [PMID: 36464128 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2022.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Sue Grigson
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, USA.
| | - Andrea L Hobkirk
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Penn State College of Medicine, USA.
| | - Patricia Sue Grigson
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, USA
| | - Andrea L Hobkirk
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Penn State College of Medicine, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wickham RJ, Henderson BJ, Jackson AB, Kabbani N. Editorial: Pharmacological and behavioral effects of added flavorants on tobacco addiction. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1100476. [PMID: 36545537 PMCID: PMC9762152 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1100476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Wickham
- Department of Psychology, Lafayette College, Easton, PA, United States,*Correspondence: Robert J. Wickham
| | - Brandon J. Henderson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, United States
| | - Asti B. Jackson
- Department of Psychiatry, Connecticut Mental Health Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Nadine Kabbani
- School of Systems Biology and Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States,Center for Biomedical Science Policy, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Lin W, Hobkirk AL, Zhu J, Krebs NM, Hayes JE, Richie JP, Liao J, Horn K, Foulds J, Muscat JE. Effect of menthol on nicotine reduction: Pooled results from two double-blind randomized controlled trials. Brain Res Bull 2022; 189:131-138. [PMID: 36038015 PMCID: PMC10650975 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2022.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Menthol upregulates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and is associated with tobacco dependence. The effects of menthol when smoking cigarettes with varying low nicotine content up to 98 % (e.g., non-addicting) less than commercial cigarettes is not well understood. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is considering two tobacco product standards in cigarettes including banning menthol and reducing nicotine content. These new standards have the potential to significantly reduce smoking initiation and maintenance by limiting the mechanistic effects of nicotine and menthol on the brain. METHODS We conducted two parallel randomized clinical trials of gradually reduced nicotine in cigarettes from 11.6 mg down to 0.2 mg nicotine/cigarette (very low nicotine content; VLNC) vs. usual nicotine content (11.6 mg; UNC) over an 18-week period in people who smoke cigarettes with low socioeconomic status (SES) and mental health conditions. RESULTS Compared to UNC, VLNC was associated with significant reductions in cotinine, cigarettes per day, expired carbon monoxide levels, nicotine dependence and symptomology. These associations did not differ between menthol and non-menthol cigarettes, except people who smoke menthol cigarettes had less of a cotinine reduction in the SES trial. The pooled odds ratio of being adherent with using only VLNC study cigarettes in the gradual nicotine reduction arm for people who smoke non-menthol vs. menthol cigarettes was 2.6 (95 % CI:1.0, 6.4; p-value: 0.04). CONCLUSIONS When nicotine is lowered to non-addicting levels, the results indicate an independent effect of menthol on the need to sustain nicotine intake in addicted people who smoke cigarettes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenxue Lin
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United States.
| | - Andrea L Hobkirk
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
| | - Junjia Zhu
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
| | - Nicolle M Krebs
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
| | - John E Hayes
- Sensory Evaluation Center, Pennsylvania State University, 220 Erickson Food Science Building, University Park, PA 16802, United States; Department of Food Science, College of Agricultural Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, 220 Erickson Food Science Building, University Park, PA 16802, United States
| | - John P Richie
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
| | - Jason Liao
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
| | - Kimberly Horn
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, United States
| | - Jonathan Foulds
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
| | - Joshua E Muscat
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Effah F, Taiwo B, Baines D, Bailey A, Marczylo T. Pulmonary effects of e-liquid flavors: a systematic review. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2022; 25:343-371. [PMID: 36154615 PMCID: PMC9590402 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2022.2124563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Electronic cigarettes (ECs) are purported to be tobacco harm-reduction products whose degree of harm has been highly debated. EC use is considered less hazardous than smoking but is not expected to be harmless. Following the banning of e-liquid flavors in countries such as the US, Finland, Ukraine, and Hungary, there are growing concerns regarding the safety profile of e-liquid flavors used in ECs. While these are employed extensively in the food industry and are generally regarded as safe (GRAS) when ingested, GRAS status after inhalation is unclear. The aim of this review was to assess evidence from 38 reports on the adverse effects of flavored e-liquids on the respiratory system in both in vitro and in vivo studies published between 2006 and 2021. Data collected demonstrated greater detrimental effects in vitro with cinnamon (9 articles), strawberry (5 articles), and menthol (10 articles), flavors than other flavors. The most reported effects among these investigations were perturbations of pro-inflammatory biomarkers and enhanced cytotoxicity. There is sufficient evidence to support the toxicological impacts of diacetyl- and cinnamaldehyde-containing e-liquids following human inhalation; however, safety profiles on other flavors are elusive. The latter may result from inconsistencies between experimental approaches and uncertainties due to the contributions from other e-liquid constituents. Further, the relevance of the concentration ranges to human exposure levels is uncertain. Evidence indicates that an adequately controlled and consistent, systematic toxicological investigation of a broad spectrum of e-liquid flavors may be required at biologically relevant concentrations to better inform public health authorities on the risk assessment following exposure to EC flavor ingredients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felix Effah
- Pharmacology Section, St George’s University of London, London, UK
- Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, UK Health Security Agency, Didcot, UK
| | - Benjamin Taiwo
- Physiology Section, St George’s University of London, London, UK
| | - Deborah Baines
- Infection and Immunity Institute, St George’s University of London, London, UK
| | - Alexis Bailey
- Pharmacology Section, St George’s University of London, London, UK
| | - Tim Marczylo
- Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, UK Health Security Agency, Didcot, UK
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Steeger CM, Harlow AF, Barrington-Trimis JL, Simon P, Hill KG, Leventhal AM. Longitudinal associations between flavored tobacco use and tobacco product cessation in a national sample of adults. Prev Med 2022; 161:107143. [PMID: 35803351 PMCID: PMC9994601 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2022.107143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Use of flavored tobacco has been associated with lower likelihood of short-term abstinence from tobacco. It is unknown whether longer-term associations exist, particularly for a variety of products and specific flavor categories. This study used adult survey data from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study (2013-2018). We tested associations of past 30-day tobacco product use at wave 2 using both a 2-category any flavor versus unflavored variable and 4-category specific flavor (menthol/mint, sweet, and both menthol/mint and sweet) versus unflavored variable with past 12-month cessation from the same product two years later at wave 4. Separate models were run for each product (combustible cigarettes, cigars, hookah, e-cigarettes, and smokeless), adjusting for wave 1 sociodemographic characteristics. For all five products, past 30-day use of any flavored (versus unflavored) product at wave 2 was associated with reduced likelihood of same-product cessation at wave 4. Most specific flavor categories were associated with reduced odds of same-product cessation across all products. Any flavor use was also associated with reduced likelihood of longer-term cessation (i.e., past 24-months at both waves 3 and 4) and cessation from all five tobacco products in several analyses. Exploratory moderation results indicated that the association between e-cigarette flavor use and lower likelihood of cessation was stronger for young adults (18-24) versus older adults (25+). Current use of flavored tobacco products is associated with lower likelihood of product cessation. Flavored tobacco products warrant consideration in regulatory policy to reduce the adverse public health impact of tobacco use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Steeger
- Institute of Behavioral Science, University of Colorado Boulder, 1440 15(th) St., Boulder, CO 80309, USA.
| | - Alyssa F Harlow
- School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 2250 Alcazar St., CSC 271, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA; Institute for Addiction Science, University of Southern California, 2001 N. Soto Street, Los Angeles, CA 90032, USA.
| | - Jessica L Barrington-Trimis
- School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 2250 Alcazar St., CSC 271, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA; Institute for Addiction Science, University of Southern California, 2001 N. Soto Street, Los Angeles, CA 90032, USA.
| | - Patricia Simon
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, 389 Whitney Avenue, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
| | - Karl G Hill
- Institute of Behavioral Science, University of Colorado Boulder, 1440 15(th) St., Boulder, CO 80309, USA.
| | - Adam M Leventhal
- School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 2250 Alcazar St., CSC 271, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA; Institute for Addiction Science, University of Southern California, 2001 N. Soto Street, Los Angeles, CA 90032, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Li W, Vargas-Rivera M, Eissenberg TE, Shihadeh A, Talih S, Maziak W. Effect of menthol/mint-flavored pods on young JUUL E-cigarette users' subjective experience, puffing behavior, and nicotine exposure: A pilot study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 237:109516. [PMID: 35679691 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent regulations have banned all flavors except menthol/mint and classic tobacco from pod-based e-cigarette devices such as JUUL. However, menthol/mint flavor can present a potential risk given its increasing popularity among young people in the US and its puffing and nicotine-enhancing properties. This study examines the impact of menthol/mint flavor manipulation on users' puffing behavior, subjective experience, and nicotine exposure among young people. METHODS JUUL users (n = 33, 18-24 years) attended two 60-min ad libitum e-cigarette use sessions (menthol/mint flavor vs. classic tobacco flavor) in a cross-over design. Puff topography and plasma nicotine concentration were measured, and participants completed subjective experience questionnaires. RESULTS Following the use of the menthol/mint-flavored pod, increases were observed in measures of satisfaction, pleasurable/interest to use, willingness to use again, enjoyment, urge to vape, product appeal, taste, and concentration (p < .05 for all). For example, compared to the classic tobacco flavor, participants experienced significantly more satisfaction of the product (4.24 vs. 3.09; p = .001) and sensation enjoyment of the product (3.55 vs. 2.48; p = .002) when using the menthol/mint flavor. While means of the plasma nicotine boost and puff parameters were lower in the classic tobacco condition compared to the menthol/mint flavor condition, no statistical significance was observed between the two conditions (p > .05 for all). CONCLUSIONS Results of this pilot study suggest that menthol/mint-flavor increases e-cigarette users' subjective experience significantly. Regulating menthol/mint flavor is a potentially promising strategy to curb e-cigarette use among young people.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Mayra Vargas-Rivera
- Department of Community Outreach, Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida, FL, USA
| | - Thomas E Eissenberg
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Alan Shihadeh
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Soha Talih
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Wasim Maziak
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA; Syrian Center for Tobacco Studies, Aleppo, Syrian Arab Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Johnson NL, Patten T, Ma M, De Biasi M, Wesson DW. Chemosensory Contributions of E-Cigarette Additives on Nicotine Use. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:893587. [PMID: 35928010 PMCID: PMC9344001 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.893587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
While rates of smoking combustible cigarettes in the United States have trended down in recent years, use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) has dramatically increased, especially among adolescents. The vast majority of e-cigarette users consume "flavored" products that contain a variety of chemosensory-rich additives, and recent literature suggests that these additives have led to the current "teen vaping epidemic." This review, covering research from both human and rodent models, provides a comprehensive overview of the sensory implications of e-cigarette additives and what is currently known about their impact on nicotine use. In doing so, we specifically address the oronasal sensory contributions of e-cigarette additives. Finally, we summarize the existing gaps in the field and highlight future directions needed to better understand the powerful influence of these additives on nicotine use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie L. Johnson
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Center for Smell and Taste, Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Theresa Patten
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Pharmacology Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Minghong Ma
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Mariella De Biasi
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Pharmacology Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Daniel W. Wesson
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Center for Smell and Taste, Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Havermans A, Mallock N, Zervas E, Caillé-Garnier S, Mansuy T, Michel C, Pennings JLA, Schulz T, Schwarze PE, Solimini R, Tassin JP, Vardavas CI, Merino M, Pauwels CGGM, van Nierop LE, Lambré C, Bolling AK. Review of industry reports on EU priority tobacco additives part A: Main outcomes and conclusions. Tob Prev Cessat 2022; 8:27. [PMID: 35860504 PMCID: PMC9255285 DOI: 10.18332/tpc/151529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The European Union Tobacco Products Directive (EU TPD) mandates enhanced reporting obligations for tobacco manufacturers regarding 15 priority additives. Within the Joint Action on Tobacco Control (JATC), a review panel of independent experts was appointed for the scientific evaluation of the additive reports submitted by a consortium of 12 tobacco manufacturers. As required by the TPD, the reports were evaluated based on their comprehensiveness, methodology and conclusions. In addition, we evaluated the chemical, toxicological, addictive, inhalation facilitating and flavoring properties of the priority additives based on the submitted reports, supplemented by the panel's expert knowledge and some independent literature. The industry concluded that none of the additives is associated with concern. Due to significant methodological limitations, we question the scientific validity of these conclusions and conclude that they are not warranted. Our review demonstrates that many issues regarding toxicity, addictiveness and attractiveness of the additives have not been sufficiently addressed, and therefore concerns remain. For example, menthol facilitates inhalation by activation of the cooling receptor TRPM8. The addition of sorbitol and guar gum leads to a significant increase of aldehydes that may contribute to toxicity and addictiveness. Titanium dioxide particles (aerodynamic diameter <10 µm) are legally classified as carcinogenic when inhaled. For diacetyl no report was provided. Overall, the industry reports were not comprehensive, and the information presented provides an insufficient basis for the regulation of most additives. We, therefore, advise MS to consider alternative approaches such as the precautionary principle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Havermans
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Nadja Mallock
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - Efthimios Zervas
- Hellenic Thoracic Society, Athens, Greece
- School of Applied Arts and Sustainable Design, Hellenic Open University, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Thibault Mansuy
- French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Paris, France
| | - Cécile Michel
- French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Paris, France
| | - Jeroen L. A. Pennings
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Thomas Schulz
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Miguel Merino
- Andalusia Agency For Agriculture and Fisheries Development, Seville, Spain
| | - Charlotte G. G. M. Pauwels
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Lotte E. van Nierop
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Claude Lambré
- National Institute of Health and Medical Research, Paris, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Akinola LS, Rahman Y, Ondo O, Gonzales J, Bagdas D, Jackson A, Davidson-Wert N, Damaj MI. Genotypic Differences in the Effects of Menthol on Nicotine Intake and Preference in Mice. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:905330. [PMID: 35769694 PMCID: PMC9234577 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.905330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Menthol has been shown to exacerbate elements of nicotine addiction in humans and rodents; however, the mechanisms mediating its effects are not fully understood. This study examined the impact of genetic factors in menthol’s effects on oral nicotine consumption by comparing two inbred mouse strains with differing sensitivities to nicotine. C57BL/6J (B6J) mice are nicotine-preferring, while DBA/2J (D2J) mice are not. While the effects of menthol on oral nicotine consumption have been highlighted in B6J mice, it is unknown if they extend to the D2J strain as well. Consequently, adolescent (PND 21) and adult (PND 63), male and female D2J mice were subjected to the nicotine two-bottle choice (2BC) paradigm with orally and systemically administered menthol. Then, we evaluated its impact on nicotine pharmacological responses in conditioned reward and nociception after systemic administration and, lastly, investigated the potential involvement of the TAAR1 gene and α7 nAChRs in menthol’s effects. Menthol failed to enhance oral nicotine consumption in adult and adolescent female and male D2J mice. Moreover, this lack in effect was not due to nicotine concentration, oral aversion to menthol, or basal preference for nicotine. Menthol also failed to augment nicotine reward or enhance nicotine-induced antinociception in D2J mice, demonstrating that genetic background plays a significant role in sensitivity to menthol’s effects on nicotine. Furthermore, TAAR1 or α7 nAChRs did not seem to mediate menthol’s differential effects in D2J mice. These findings support the existence of genotype-specific mechanisms that may contribute to the variable effects of menthol in different populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lois S. Akinola
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
- *Correspondence: Lois S. Akinola,
| | - Yumna Rahman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Olivia Ondo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Jada Gonzales
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Deniz Bagdas
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
- Yale Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Asti Jackson
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
- Yale Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Nicole Davidson-Wert
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - M. Imad Damaj
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Leas EC, Benmarhnia T, Strong DR, Pierce JP. Use of Menthol Cigarettes, Smoking Frequency, and Nicotine Dependence Among US Youth. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2217144. [PMID: 35666498 PMCID: PMC9171563 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.17144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Menthol may make cigarette smoke less aversive and could lead youth to smoke more frequently and become more dependent on nicotine. OBJECTIVE To assess the association of menthol use with cigarette smoking frequency and nicotine dependence (ND) among youth cigarettes users. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This cohort study used a pooled sample of cohorts of US youth (aged 12-17 years at their baseline and follow-up interviews) in the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study (September 2013 to November 2019). Household interviews were conducted using audio computer-assisted self-interviews. US youth who were past-30-day cigarette smokers at any of wave 2 through wave 5, completed the preceding survey (eg, wave 2 past-30-day cigarette smokers completed wave 1), and indicated whether they used menthol cigarettes were eligible. The association of menthol use with smoking frequency and ND was estimated using inverse probability of treatment weighting adjusted mean differences (aMDs), adjusted risk ratios (aRRs), and corresponding 95% CIs. Data were analyzed from December 2021 to March 2022. EXPOSURES Menthol use and transitions in use (switching to or from menthol cigarettes). MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Main outcomes were the number of days smoked in the past 30 days, the risk of frequent smoking (smoking ≥20 days in the past 30 days), and symptoms of ND. RESULTS There were a total of 1492 observations among 1096 US youth cigarette smokers, of whom 49.4% were female, 67.2% were non-Hispanic White, and 28.7% were aged 12 to 14 years at their baseline survey (all percentages are weighted). Among those who switched from not smoking to smoking (61% of the sample), menthol use was associated with smoking on 3.1 additional days (aMD; 95% CI, 1.9 to 4.2 days), 59% higher risk of being a frequent smoker (aRR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.23 to 2.06), and 10% higher ND scores (aMD, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.17). Switching from smoking menthol to smoking nonmenthol (vs maintaining menthol use) was associated with smoking on 3.6 fewer days (aMD; 95% CI, -6.3 to -0.9 days) and 47% lower risk of being a frequent smoker (aRR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.50 to 0.92). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE These findings suggest that the addition of menthol to cigarettes is associated with increased smoking frequency and ND among US youth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric C. Leas
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Tarik Benmarhnia
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| | - David R. Strong
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| | - John P. Pierce
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Gueorguieva R, Schwartz EKC, MacLean RR, DeVito EE, Eid T, Wu R, O’Malley SS, Sofuoglu M. Plasma Menthol Glucuronide as a Biomarker for the Behavioral Effects of Menthol and Nicotine in Humans. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:844824. [PMID: 35431934 PMCID: PMC9009207 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.844824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This secondary analysis sought to determine if plasma menthol glucuronide (MG) concentrations predict changes in three outcomes, subjective drug effects, urges to smoke, and heart rate, following concurrent inhaled menthol and intravenous nicotine. A total of 45 menthol and non-menthol cigarettes smokers (36 male, nine female, 20 Black, and 23 White) were included in this double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Across three test sessions, participants were assigned to a different flavor condition for each session: 0% (no menthol), 0.5%, or 3.2% menthol. In each test session, participants received in a random order one intravenous delivery of saline and two intravenous deliveries of nicotine (0.25 mg/70 kg and 0.5 mg/70 kg), each 1 h apart, concurrent with menthol delivery by e-cigarettes. The main outcomes were subjective drug effects, urges to smoke, and heart rate. The results showed that following e-cigarette inhalation, changes in plasma MG concentrations or “menthol boost” increased proportionally to the menthol concentration in the e-liquids. While changes in plasma MG concentrations were not predictive of increases in heart rate or subjective drug effects that are reflective of acute effects from nicotine (i.e., feel good effects, stimulated, aversive effects), they were predictive of cooling effect, a typical effect of menthol, but only in menthol smokers in the absence of concurrent active nicotine infusion. These findings demonstrate the utility of plasma MG as a biomarker both for acute menthol exposure by e-cigarette inhalation and for the examination of the concentration-dependent behavioral and physiological effects of menthol in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ralitza Gueorguieva
- Yale School of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics, New Haven, CT, United States
- Yale University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Elizabeth K. C. Schwartz
- Yale University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT, United States
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
| | - R. Ross MacLean
- Yale University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT, United States
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
| | - Elise E. DeVito
- Yale University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Tore Eid
- Yale University, School of Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Ran Wu
- Yale University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Stephanie S. O’Malley
- Yale University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Mehmet Sofuoglu
- Yale University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT, United States
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
- *Correspondence: Mehmet Sofuoglu,
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Silva WMF, Bona NP, Pedra NS, Cunha KFD, Fiorentini AM, Stefanello FM, Zavareze ER, Dias ARG. Risk assessment of in vitro cytotoxicity, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Mentha piperita L. essential oil. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2022; 85:230-242. [PMID: 34781835 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2021.1999875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the chemical composition as well as antioxidant, antibacterial, and cytotoxic properties of the essential oil of Mentha piperita L. (peppermint). Fifteen chemical constituents were identified in the essential oil, for a total of 99.99% of the compounds. The essential oil exhibited antimicrobial activity against two Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of essential oil of Mentha piperita L. for Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes was 1.84 μg/ml, whereas the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were 3.7 and 7.43 μg/ml, respectively. The oil displayed potent antioxidant activity inhibiting up to approximately73% of 2,2'-azinothiobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radicals. In the cytotoxicity assay, the highest essential oil concentration (100 μg/ml) resulted in viability of approximately 90% human epidermal keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells. With respect to antitumor activity in C6 rat glioma cells, there was significant reduction in cell viability: 56-74% in 24 hr, and 71-77% in 48 hr. Data suggest that in presence of the essential oil of Mentha piperita L. antioxidant, antibacterial, antitumor and non-cytotoxic properties were noted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W M F Silva
- Agroindustrial Science and Technology Department, Federal University of Pelotas, Campus Capão Do Leão, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - N P Bona
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry and Bioprospecting - Laboratory of Neurochemistry, Inflammation and Cancer, Center for Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Food Sciences, Federal University of Pelotas, University Campus S/n, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - N S Pedra
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry and Bioprospecting - Laboratory of Neurochemistry, Inflammation and Cancer, Center for Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Food Sciences, Federal University of Pelotas, University Campus S/n, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - K F Da Cunha
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - A M Fiorentini
- Agroindustrial Science and Technology Department, Federal University of Pelotas, Campus Capão Do Leão, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - F M Stefanello
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry and Bioprospecting - Laboratory of Neurochemistry, Inflammation and Cancer, Center for Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Food Sciences, Federal University of Pelotas, University Campus S/n, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - E R Zavareze
- Agroindustrial Science and Technology Department, Federal University of Pelotas, Campus Capão Do Leão, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - A R G Dias
- Agroindustrial Science and Technology Department, Federal University of Pelotas, Campus Capão Do Leão, Pelotas, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Donny EC, White CM. A review of the evidence on cigarettes with reduced addictiveness potential. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 99:103436. [PMID: 34535366 PMCID: PMC8785120 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In May 2018, the Secretariat for the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control convened a meeting to discuss the potential for reducing the addictiveness of tobacco products. A central focus was to review research findings on the behavioral effects of reducing the addictiveness of cigarettes. METHODS This manuscript reports the results of a review of the behavioral science literature, updated through April 2021, with special attention to both the potential benefits and unintended consequences of reducing nicotine in cigarettes. RESULTS Available evidence suggests that reducing nicotine content in cigarettes to very low levels could benefit public health in three primary ways, by 1) decreasing uptake of regular smoking, 2) decreasing the amount people smoke, and 3) increasing the likelihood of smoking cessation. Current evidence also suggests that reducing nicotine in cigarettes may produce similar benefits across many important subpopulations of people who smoke, including those with psychiatric comorbidities, those who use other substances, those with low socioeconomic status, young people, people who smoke infrequently and people who prefer menthol cigarettes. Cigarette nicotine reduction could also lead to some undesirable outcomes, such as experiencing withdrawal, product manipulation, an illicit market, and harm misperceptions; strategies that may mitigate each are discussed. CONCLUSION Overall, behavioral research suggests product standards that limit the nicotine content of combusted tobacco products could render cigarettes and similar products less addictive. The availability of legal, non-combusted products that effectively substitute for cigarettes and the dissemination of public health campaigns that clarify misperceptions about the relationship between nicotine, tobacco and disease may facilitate the extent to which a nicotine reduction policy reduces smoking.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric C Donny
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
| | - Cassidy M White
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Piyankarage SC, McGahee E, Feng J, Blount BC, Wang L. Automated Solid Phase Extraction and Polarity-Switching Tandem Mass Spectrometry Technique for High Throughput Analysis of Urine Biomarkers for 14 Tobacco-related Compounds. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:30901-30909. [PMID: 34841133 PMCID: PMC8613820 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c02543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of premature disease and death in the United States. Approximately, 34 million U.S. adults currently smoke cigarettes. We developed a method for automated sample preparation and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry quantitation of 14 tobacco-related analytes: nicotine (NICF), cotinine (COTF), trans-3'-hydroxycotinine (HCTF), menthol glucuronide (MEG), anabasine (ANBF), anatabine (ANTF), isonicoteine (ISNT), myosmine (MYOS), beta-nicotyrine (BNTR), bupropion (BUPR), cytisine (CYTI), varenicline (VARE), arecaidine (ARD), and arecoline (ARL). The method includes automated solid-phase extraction using customized positive-pressure functions. The preparation scheme has the capacity to process a batch of 96 samples within 4 h with greater than 88% recovery for all analytes. The 14 analytes, separated within 4.15 min using reversed-phase liquid chromatography, were determined using a triple-quadrupole mass spectrometer with atmospheric-pressure chemical ionization and multiple reaction monitoring in negative and positive ionization modes. Wide quantitation ranges, within 1.2-72,000 ng/mL, were established especially for COTF, HCTF, MEG, and NICF to quantify the broad range of biomarker concentrations found in the U.S. population. The method accuracy is above 90% while the overall imprecision is below 7%. Finally, we tested urine samples from 90 smokers and observed detection rates of over 98% for six analytes with urinary HCTF and MEG concentrations ranging from 200-14,100 and 60-57,100 ng/mL, respectively. This high throughput analytical process can prepare and analyze a sample in 9 min and along with the 14-compound analyte panel can be useful for tobacco-exposure studies, in smoking-cessation programs, and for detecting changes in exposure related to tobacco products and their use.
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
Social disparities in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survival have been studied using national databases, statewide registries, and institution-level data. Some disparities emerge consistently, such as lower adherence to treatment guidelines and worse survival by race and socioeconomic status, whereas other disparities are less well studied. A critical appraisal of current data is essential to increasing equity in lung cancer care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irmina Elliott
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, 300 Pasteur Dr Falk Cardiovascular Research Building, Stanford, CA 94305-5407, USA
| | - Cayo Gonzalez
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, 300 Pasteur Dr Falk Cardiovascular Research Building, Stanford, CA 94305-5407, USA
| | - Leah Backhus
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, 300 Pasteur Dr Falk Cardiovascular Research Building, Stanford, CA 94305-5407, USA
| | - Natalie Lui
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, 300 Pasteur Dr Falk Cardiovascular Research Building, Stanford, CA 94305-5407, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Conceptual model for the evaluation of attractiveness, addictiveness and toxicity of tobacco and related products: The example of JUUL e-cigarettes. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2021; 127:105077. [PMID: 34748878 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2021.105077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Many new tobacco and related products (nTRP) have emerged on the market, with unknown health risks. Here, we present a conceptual model containing the factors and relations between them that contribute to the nTRP's health effects. Factors that determine attractiveness, addictiveness and toxicity of nTRP were defined based on previous assessments, literature, and expert discussions. Our model will aid in identifying key risk factors contributing to increased risk of adverse health effects for a product in a qualitative manner. Additionally, it can gauge attractiveness for specific user groups, as a determinant for population prevalence of use. Our model can be used to identify aspects of nTRP that require attention for public information or product regulation. As an example, we applied this to JUUL, a popular e-cigarette in the US. Aspects of concern for JUUL are its attractive and discrete shape, user-friendly prefilled pods, flavors, high aerosol nicotine levels, and liquids containing nicotine salts instead of free-based nicotine. The addictiveness and especially attractiveness are sufficiently high to have a large potential impact on population health due to its contribution to use and hence exposure. Products and their use can change over time; therefore market research and monitoring are crucial.
Collapse
|
38
|
Jao NC, Gueorguieva R, Hitsman B, Sofuoglu M. Acute effects of inhaled menthol on cognitive effects of intravenous nicotine among young adult cigarette smokers. Addict Behav 2021; 122:107022. [PMID: 34174551 PMCID: PMC8328965 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.107022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Basic science studies indicate that menthol can enhance the cognitive effects of nicotine to increase nicotine dependence; however, the effect of menthol and nicotine on cognitive functioning among humans has been understudied. This double-blind, placebo-controlled study examined the dose-dependent effects of inhaled menthol flavoring and intravenous nicotine on cognitive task performance. Twenty menthol (MS) and 18 non-menthol (NMS) cigarette preferring, young-adult smokers (21% female; 7.9% Hispanic, 44.7% Non-Hispanic/White, 47.4% Non-Hispanic/Black) completed three sessions with randomized order of menthol flavoring (between-sessions: 0.0%/tobacco control, 0.5%/low, 3.2%/high) and intravenous nicotine (within-session: 0.0 mg/saline control, 0.25 mg/low, 0.5 mg/high). After each administration, participants completed three cognitive tasks: Continuous Performance Task (CPT), Mathematical Processing Task (MPT), and Stroop Task. Mixed effects models were used to examine interactive effects of cigarette type preference and menthol and nicotine doses. MS vs. NMS had decreased accuracy on CPT and MPT and efficiency during Stroop. No significant effects of cigarette type preference by menthol or nicotine were found for any task. Significant effects of nicotine by menthol were found during Stroop, where participants had greater accuracy for high nicotine compared to saline during the low menthol session. Significant effects of menthol by timepoint were seen during Stroop, where participants improved across timepoints during the low menthol session. Findings did not support significant effects of inhaled menthol, alone or with nicotine, on cognitive performance. Further research clarifying the impact of varying menthol and nicotine levels in nicotine products may help to elucidate menthol's role in smoking sustainment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nancy C Jao
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior at Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University and the Center for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine at The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Ralitza Gueorguieva
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Brian Hitsman
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Mehmet Sofuoglu
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Rose SW, Anesetti-Rothermel A, Westneat S, van de Venne J, Folger S, Rahman B, Azam T, Zhou Y, Debnam C, Ribisl K, Cohn AM. Inequitable distribution of FTP marketing by neighborhood characteristics: further evidence for targeted marketing. Nicotine Tob Res 2021; 24:484-492. [PMID: 34687204 PMCID: PMC8887586 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntab222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Flavored tobacco products (FTPs) are disproportionately used among young people and racial/ethnic minority populations. However, few studies have examined the retail distribution of such product marketing beyond menthol cigarettes. This study created geographic-based predictions about marketing of FTPs (overall, cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, and smokeless) in stores across Washington, DC neighborhoods. We examined neighborhood-level demographic correlates of the amount of FTP and non-FTP marketing. Methods We conducted photographic audits of interior and exterior tobacco marketing in 96 Washington, DC tobacco retailers visited by 149 young adult respondents between 2018–2019. We created a geographic predictive surface of overall and product-specific tobacco marketing and then estimated the average predicted amount of marketing at the census-tract level using zonal statistics. Using linear regression, we examined neighborhood demographic correlates (race/ethnicity, family poverty, and youth population under 18) of FTP and non-FTP marketing. Results The predicted amount of non-FTP ads/displays were evenly distributed with no neighborhood variability (Range 8.46–8.46). FTP marketing overall was geographically concentrated with greater range across neighborhoods (Range 6.27–16.77). Greater FTP marketing overall and flavored cigar marketing was available in neighborhoods with higher percentages of Black residents. Flavored cigar marketing was less available in neighborhoods with more Hispanic residents, but there was greater flavored smokeless tobacco marketing. Nonflavored marketing overall and by product did not vary across neighborhoods. Conclusions This study provides evidence of disproportionate distribution of FTP marketing in Black neighborhoods, especially for flavored cigars, at the point-of-sale. Policies that restrict the sale of FTPs may enhance health equity. Implications Tobacco marketing has frequently been shown to be more prevalent in neighborhoods with lower household income and more Black residents. Using geographic-based predictions, we find that greater flavored tobacco marketing in these neighborhoods, not decreased marketing for nonflavored tobacco, is driving this disparity. Targeting Black neighborhoods with increased marketing of flavored tobacco products, which has been found to be more appealing, easier to use, and harder to quit is a social justice issue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shyanika W Rose
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine Department of Behavioral Science and Center for Health Equity Transformation, Lexington, KY.,Markey Cancer Center, Lexington, KY
| | - Andrew Anesetti-Rothermel
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine Department of Behavioral Science and Center for Health Equity Transformation, Lexington, KY.,Center for Tobacco Products, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Susan Westneat
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine Department of Behavioral Science and Center for Health Equity Transformation, Lexington, KY
| | - Judy van de Venne
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine Department of Behavioral Science and Center for Health Equity Transformation, Lexington, KY
| | | | - Basmah Rahman
- Truth Initiative Schroeder Institute, Washington, DC
| | - Tofial Azam
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine Department of Behavioral Science and Center for Health Equity Transformation, Lexington, KY.,University of Kentucky, College of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics, Lexington, KY
| | - Yitong Zhou
- Truth Initiative Schroeder Institute, Washington, DC
| | | | - Kurt Ribisl
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Gillings School of Global Public Health, Department of Health Behavior, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Amy M Cohn
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, Oklahoma City, OK.,Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences, Oklahoma City, OK
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Jao NC, Levin ED, Simon MA, Hitsman B. Differences in Cognitive Task Performance, Reinforcement Enhancement, and Nicotine Dependence Between Menthol and Nonmenthol Cigarette Smokers. Nicotine Tob Res 2021; 23:1902-1910. [PMID: 34086950 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntab120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Menthol has been shown to target similar brain regions and neural receptors as nicotine, yet the association between menthol cigarette use and cognitive performance remains unknown. AIMS AND METHODS This study examined differences in cognitive task performance between menthol (MS) and nonmenthol (NMS) cigarette smokers after acute cigarette consumption. Sixty white and black and/or African American, nonabstinent, MS (n = 30) and NMS (n = 30) were assessed presmoking and postsmoking their preferred cigarette on four computerized tasks: Continuous Performance Task (CPT; alerting attention), N-Back Task (working memory), Finger Tapping Task (motor control), and Apple Picker Task (reinforcement enhancement). Self-reported nicotine dependence and objective smoking topography measures were also compared between groups. RESULTS Initial unadjusted analyses showed a significant effect of cigarette type × time on CPT speed (p = .042), where MS improved while NMS group worsened in CPT speed after smoking. After controlling for baseline cigarette craving and cigarette nicotine levels, the effect of cigarette type × time for all cognitive outcomes was statistically nonsignificant (ps > .05). However, there remained a significant effect of cigarette type, where MS versus NMS had poorer CPT (p = .046) and N-Back Task accuracy (p = .006) but faster N-Back speed (p = .039). There were no statistically significant differences between groups on reinforcement enhancement, nicotine dependence, or smoking behavior outcomes (ps > .05). CONCLUSIONS Contrary to our hypotheses, results did not find a significant effect of cigarette type on the change in cognitive performance after acute smoking in nonabstinent smokers. Further studies are needed to clarify the specific pharmacological effects of nicotine and menthol on cognitive functioning. IMPLICATIONS The current study is the first to compare the potential enhancement of cognitive task performance after acute cigarette smoking between satiated menthol and nonmenthol cigarette smokers. Study results suggest that acute menthol cigarette use may not enhance cognitive function above and beyond nonmenthol cigarettes to increase dependence among menthol smokers. However, the contribution of other psychological factors (eg, craving, mood) and cigarette characteristics (eg, nicotine content) may be involved in cognitive function enhancement to perpetuate dependence and smoking persistence for menthol smokers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nancy C Jao
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, and Center for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Edward D Levin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Melissa A Simon
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Preventive Medicine, and Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Brian Hitsman
- Departments of Preventive Medicine, Medical Social Sciences, and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Karelitz JL, Perkins KA. Acute subjective sensory perceptions predict relative reinforcing effects of smoked nicotine. Addict Behav 2021; 117:106835. [PMID: 33517233 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.106835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Smoking is believed partially reinforcing via immediate sensory perceptions. Yet, unknown is whether a cigarette's relative reinforcing efficacy can be predicted by these perceptions and whether this relationship may vary due to constituents known to alter those perceptions. METHODS Sensory perceptions of acute smoking were examined as predictors of subsequent cigarette choice behavior. Also tested was whether nicotine content or menthol affected this relationship. Adult dependent smokers (N = 37) participated in five sessions comparing cigarettes varying in nicotine contents (NIC; 1.3, 2.3, 5.5, 11.2, and 17.4 mg/g), relative to the very lowest nicotine content, 0.4 mg/g (VLNC). Non-menthol (n = 17) and menthol (n = 20) cigarettes-matched on nicotine-were provided based on participant preference. One NIC was compared versus VLNC per session (single-blinded); NIC content order was randomized across sessions on separate days. Perceptions (e.g., "liking", "satisfying") were measured immediately after initial sampling of NIC or VLNC, followed by a validated puff-by-puff choice procedure to determine preference for each NIC versus VLNC. RESULTS NIC perceptions (difference from VLNC) and puff choices increased with nicotine. Menthol moderated associations between perceptions and nicotine; and between puff choices and nicotine. Perceptions were predictive of puff choice-greater magnitude of difference in perceptions between VLNC and NIC led to more NIC puff choices. When testing perceptions' prediction of puff choices, neither the main effect of menthol or interaction of Perceptions X Nicotine Condition were significant. CONCLUSIONS Consistent with assumed-but rarely tested-causes of smoking reinforcement, sensory perceptions from a cigarette predict its relative reinforcing efficacy.
Collapse
|
42
|
Mills SD, Hao Y, Ribisl KM, Wiesen CA, Hassmiller Lich K. The Relationship Between Menthol Cigarette Use, Smoking Cessation, and Relapse: Findings From Waves 1 to 4 of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study. Nicotine Tob Res 2021; 23:966-975. [PMID: 33063826 PMCID: PMC8248945 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntaa212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Some, but not all, studies suggest that menthol cigarette smokers have more difficulty quitting than non-menthol cigarette smokers. Inconsistent findings may be a result of differences in smoker characteristics (eg, daily vs. non-daily smokers) across studies. This study examines the relationship between menthol cigarette use, cessation, and relapse in a longitudinal, nationally representative study of tobacco use in the United States. AIMS AND METHODS Data come from four waves of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study. Waves 1-4 were conducted approximately annually from September 2013 to January 2018. Generalized estimating equation models were used to prospectively examine the relationship between menthol cigarette use, cessation, and relapse in non-daily and daily adult (18+) smokers. Cessation was defined as smokers who had not used cigarettes within the past 30 days at their subsequent assessment. Relapse was defined as cessation followed by past 30-day smoking in the next assessment. RESULTS Among daily smokers (n = 13 710), 4.0% and 5.3% of menthol and non-menthol smokers quit after 1 year, respectively. In an adjusted model, menthol smokers were less likely to quit compared with non-menthol smokers (odds ratio [OR] = 0.76 [0.63, 0.91]). When the sample was stratified by race/ethnicity, African American (OR = 0.47 [0.24, 0.91]) and White (OR = 0.78 [0.63, 0.97]) daily menthol users were less likely to have quit. Among non-daily smokers (n = 3608), there were no significant differences in quit rates. Among daily and non-daily former smokers, there were also no differences in relapse rates between menthol and non-menthol smokers. CONCLUSIONS Menthol cigarette use is associated with lower odds of cessation. IMPLICATIONS Findings from this study suggest that menthol cigarette use is associated with lower odds of cessation, but not relapse. Removing menthol cigarettes from the market may improve cessation rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah D Mills
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global
Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill,
Chapel Hill, NC
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of
North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill,
NC
| | - Yajing Hao
- Department of Biostatistics, Gillings School of Global
Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill,
Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Kurt M Ribisl
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global
Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill,
Chapel Hill, NC
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of
North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill,
NC
| | | | - Kristen Hassmiller Lich
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of
North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill,
NC
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Mancuso S, Brennan E, Dunstone K, Vittiglia A, Durkin S, Thrasher JF, Hoek J, Wakefield M. Australian Smokers' Sensory Experiences and Beliefs Associated with Menthol and Non-Menthol Cigarettes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18115501. [PMID: 34063735 PMCID: PMC8196669 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Many current smokers incorrectly believe that menthol cigarettes are less harmful, likely due to the biological and sensory effects of menthol, which can lead smokers to have favourable sensory experiences. In this study, we measured the extent to which Australian smokers associate certain sensory experiences with smoking menthol and non-menthol cigarettes, and their beliefs about how damaging and enjoyable they find cigarettes with each of these sensory experiences. A sample of 999 Australian 18–69-year-old weekly smokers was recruited from a non-probability online panel; this study focuses on the 245 respondents who currently smoked menthol cigarettes at least once per week. Current menthol smokers were four to nine times more likely to experience menthol rather than non-menthol cigarettes as having favourable sensory experiences, including feeling smooth, being soothing on the throat, fresh-tasting and clean-feeling. Menthol smokers perceived cigarettes with these favourable sensations as less damaging and more enjoyable than cigarettes with the opposite more aversive sensory experience. Efforts to correct these misperceptions about risk will likely require messages that provide new information to help smokers understand that these sensations do not indicate a lower level of risk. Banning menthol in tobacco products—as has recently been done in some nations—would also be a timely and justified strategy for protecting consumers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serafino Mancuso
- Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (A.V.); (S.D.); (M.W.)
| | - Emily Brennan
- Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (A.V.); (S.D.); (M.W.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Kimberley Dunstone
- Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (A.V.); (S.D.); (M.W.)
| | - Amanda Vittiglia
- Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (A.V.); (S.D.); (M.W.)
| | - Sarah Durkin
- Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (A.V.); (S.D.); (M.W.)
| | - James F. Thrasher
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA;
| | - Janet Hoek
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6140, New Zealand;
| | - Melanie Wakefield
- Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (A.V.); (S.D.); (M.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Payne-Sturges DC, Gee GC, Cory-Slechta DA. Confronting Racism in Environmental Health Sciences: Moving the Science Forward for Eliminating Racial Inequities. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2021; 129:55002. [PMID: 33945300 PMCID: PMC8096378 DOI: 10.1289/ehp8186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The twin pandemics of COVID-19 and systemic racism during 2020 have forced a conversation across many segments of our society, including the environmental health sciences (EHS) research community. We have seen the proliferation of statements of solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement and commitments to fight racism and health inequities from academia, nonprofit organizations, governmental agencies, and private corporations. Actions must now arise from these promises. As public health and EHS scientists, we must examine the systems that produce and perpetuate inequities in exposure to environmental pollutants and associated health effects. OBJECTIVES We outline five recommendations the EHS research community can implement to confront racism and move our science forward for eliminating racial inequities in environmental health. DISCUSSION Race is best considered a political label that promotes inequality. Thus, we should be wary of equating race with biology. Further, EHS researchers should seriously consider racism as a plausible explanation of racial disparities in health and consider structural racism as a factor in environmental health risk/impact assessments, as well as multiple explanations for racial differences in environmental exposures and health outcomes. Last, the EHS research community should develop metrics to measure racism and a set of guidelines on the use and interpretation of race and ethnicity within the environmental sciences. Numerous guidelines exist in other disciplines that can serve as models. By taking action on each of these recommendations, we can make significant progress toward eliminating racial disparities. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP8186.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Devon C. Payne-Sturges
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Gilbert C. Gee
- Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Silva H. A Descriptive Overview of the Medical Uses Given to Mentha Aromatic Herbs throughout History. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:484. [PMID: 33371310 PMCID: PMC7767097 DOI: 10.3390/biology9120484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Mints have been among the most widely used herbs for medicinal purposes since ancient civilizations. They are still presently used for numerous purposes, including non-medicinal, which makes them economically relevant herbs. Information regarding the medical and scientific uses given to mints throughout history are vastly scattered and/or incomplete. The aim of this paper is to provide an extensive descriptive overview of the medical uses given to these herbs, highlighting both the authors in medical culture responsible for their dissemination, as well as their major galenic formulations. Databases on medical science, reference textbooks on medical history, botanics (aromatic herbs), and pharmacognosy were consulted. The use of mints remotes to Classical Antiquity, with major contributions from Pliny the Elder. In the Middle Ages, the increased knowledge surrounding mints came from Byzantine physicians, while, in the Modern Age, technological developments allowed the production of mint-based products which have become part of elaborate galenic formulas employed by an increasing number of physicians, as well as have also stimulated both scientific and artistic interests alike. In present-day medicine, several mints and mint-based products are being researched as potential therapeutic alternatives for many diseases, while also being vastly employed in food and cosmetic industries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henrique Silva
- Informetrics Research Group, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City 758307, Vietnam;
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City 758307, Vietnam
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Delnevo CD, Ganz O, Goodwin RD. Banning Menthol Cigarettes: A Social Justice Issue Long Overdue. Nicotine Tob Res 2020; 22:1673-1675. [PMID: 33030210 PMCID: PMC7542641 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntaa152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristine D Delnevo
- Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Brunswick, NJ
- Department of Health Behavior, Society and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ
| | - Ollie Ganz
- Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Brunswick, NJ
- Department of Health Behavior, Society and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ
| | - Renee D Goodwin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, The City University of New York, New York, NY
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Cooper SY, Henderson BJ. The Impact of Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS) Flavors on Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors and Nicotine Addiction-Related Behaviors. Molecules 2020; 25:E4223. [PMID: 32942576 PMCID: PMC7571084 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25184223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, combustible cigarette smoking has slowly declined by nearly 11% in America; however, the use of electronic cigarettes has increased tremendously, including among adolescents. While nicotine is the main addictive component of tobacco products and a primary concern in electronic cigarettes, this is not the only constituent of concern. There is a growing market of flavored products and a growing use of zero-nicotine e-liquids among electronic cigarette users. Accordingly, there are few studies that examine the impact of flavors on health and behavior. Menthol has been studied most extensively due to its lone exception in combustible cigarettes. Thus, there is a broad understanding of the neurobiological effects that menthol plus nicotine has on the brain including enhancing nicotine reward, altering nicotinic acetylcholine receptor number and function, and altering midbrain neuron excitability. Although flavors other than menthol were banned from combustible cigarettes, over 15,000 flavorants are available for use in electronic cigarettes. This review seeks to summarize the current knowledge on nicotine addiction and the various brain regions and nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subtypes involved, as well as describe the most recent findings regarding menthol and green apple flavorants, and their roles in nicotine addiction and vaping-related behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Brandon J. Henderson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25703, USA;
| |
Collapse
|