Today, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced its decision to authorize the marketing of Juul's menthol and tobacco-flavored e-cigarettes. In response to this announcement, Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, expressed his concern.
"The American Lung Association is deeply troubled that FDA will permit Juul to remain on the market in the U.S. and is especially concerned to learn that Juul’s menthol flavor will continue being sold," stated Wimmer. He emphasized that these products have not met the public health standards outlined in the Tobacco Control Act, warning that today's decision could lead to further harm among youth.
Wimmer pointed out that "Juul hooked a generation of kids on tobacco through flavored products, youth-targeted marketing and high-levels of nicotine." He noted that Juul has already agreed to pay over $1 billion in settlements due to its role in addicting young people. According to him, ending sales of Juul and all flavored e-cigarette products is essential for curbing youth vaping.
"The Lung Association stands firmly with the science: no flavored tobacco products are appropriate for the protection of public health, and all should be removed," Wimmer continued. He called upon the FDA to reconsider its decision and urged state and local governments to prohibit all flavored tobacco products.
The American Lung Association offers resources aimed at preventing tobacco use among youth. These resources are designed for schools, parents, and teens, including initiatives like Talk About Vaping and Vape-Free Schools Initiative.
