Intergenerational Fight Against Menthol

Although NJ has made progress in decreasing smoking, disparities persist in certain segments of the population, including people who identify as AA/B, those without a high school degree, and people who make less than $10,000. Newark’s demographics align with the segments of NJ’s population suffering from these health disparities. It has an AA/B population of nearly 50% and high poverty rates. The smoking rate among Newark adults is 56.8% higher than the adult smoking rate for all of NJ. Newark’s physical environment – with high tobacco retailer density – contributes to and exacerbates these disparities.

The Rutgers Institute for Nicotine and Tobacco Studies (INTS) is putting into practice proven strategies to fight against menthol and flavored tobacco products to achieve health equity. In collaboration with Rutgers’ Center for Health Equity and Community Engagement (CHECE), this project is designed to leverage partnerships with five community groups in the Newark area, and to educate them regarding the tobacco industry’s tactics. It will also facilitate efforts to quit using tobacco products, creating sustainable systems that will protect population health moving forward. Finally, this project will encourage community groups to advocate for tobacco control policies that can help the entire Newark community and potentially the entire state.