Smoking also increases the risk for stroke
Blog last updated: October 17, 2025
So when they quit, it can feel like they've lost their main coping tool
In 1924, Ohioan Lloyd "Spud" Hughes filed a patent application for his original technique of treating tobacco with menthol, creating a cigarette that was "cooling and soothing to irritated membranes" while being allegedly "absolutely non-injurious" and "pleasant to the taste." A century later, his invention having become immensely popular among African American smokers, the menthol cigarette is on the verge of being completely prohibited throughout the United States
Judge Gladys Kessler noted in her 1,683-page ruling, As set forth in these Final Proposed Findings of Fact, substantial evidence establishes that Defendants have engaged in and executed and continue to engage in and execute (emphasis added) a massive 50-year scheme to defraud the public, including consumers of cigarettes, in violation of RICO. Due to improper political interference, there were many times when the case could have been settled or watered down, but under the leadership of the Tobacco-Free Kids (TFK) Action Fund, a total of six organizations petitioned the court to serve as Public Health Intervenors in the case
