As The Mississippi State Department of Health continues to spread awareness of cardiovascular health during American Heart Month, the Office of Tobacco Control is stressing the connection between heart health and tobacco because smoking, in any amount, contributes to heart disease. African Americans are not only more likely than other groups to develop heart disease, but they’re also more likely to die from it.

 

Though the overall number of people who smoke has decreased in recent years, the percentage who smoke menthol cigarettes has increased because menthol interacts with chemicals in the brain, making them more addictive. An estimated 70% of African American smokers age 18-34 use menthol cigarettes compared to 39% of white adults in that same age group in 2018-2019, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Between 1980 and 2018, 1.5 million African Americans began smoking menthol cigarettes, and 157,000 died early as a result.

 

African Americans who smoke menthol cigarettes may also be less successful in quitting than others because they are more likely to face barriers when trying to find quit smoking services.

 

“We know that smoking is not good for your health,” said Tiffany Johnson, interim OTC director. “We want to arm you with facts and provide you with the free support you deserve. Come to a county health department and get your blood pressure checked. At the same time, we can help you stop smoking by connecting you to our Quitline.”

 

The OTC encourages all Mississippians to engage in heart healthy behavior. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, controlling blood pressure and quitting smoking all lower the risk of heart disease.

 

“Our agency offers many ways to support you in your health journey,” said Kenneth White, project director. “We understand the importance of meeting folks where they are. Look for us in your community. We’re here for you.”

 

For information about the dangers of cigarettes, visit healthyms.com/tobacco. For help with quitting visit quitlinems.com or call The Mississippi Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW.