Civil rights, medical groups sue FDA over ‘almost unconscionable’ delay in ban on menthol tobacco products

• Civil rights and medical organizations are suing the FDA for missing its deadline to ban menthol cigarettes, alleging prioritization of profits over public health.
• Menthol cigarettes disproportionately harm Black and LGBTQ+ communities, exacerbating health disparities.
• A delayed ban, crucial for saving lives and reducing healthcare costs, remains a top priority despite ongoing litigation.
• Research suggests that a menthol ban could lead to a significant reduction in smoking-related deaths and diseases, particularly among marginalized groups.
• Despite the urgency emphasized by public health advocates, the FDA's response to the lawsuit and the implementation of the ban remain pending.