Tobacco reduction and menthol

November 18, 2014

Dear Member:

As you have probably heard in the media, government has implemented a number of changes to the Tobacco Reduction Act and Tobacco Regulation Act. Minister of Health Stephen Mandel announced a number of amendments.

Effective immediately, it will be illegal to smoke in vehicles when minors are present. In line with federal legislation, the amendments also prohibit selling, giving or lending tobacco products to minors. Beginning June 1, 2015, there will be a minimum pack size for some tobacco products. This is designed to eliminate smaller, cheaper packs that have been very attractive to young smokers. Finally, the amendments will ban certain flavorings in tobacco products.

The flavoring ban did not, however, contain a ban on menthol. I understand that no North American jurisdiction so far has implemented a menthol ban, while the European Union is in the early stages. There were hopes that Alberta might take the lead.

The Alberta Medical Association (AMA) has a long history of advocacy for tobacco reduction. We have collaborated with others to promote anti-tobacco legislation. A few weeks ago, I wrote to Minister Mandel to say that the AMA strongly supports inclusion of menthol as a banned substance under legislation. Menthol "numbs the throat, opens the airways and increases nicotine absorption in the blood stream.... A recent Canadian study of youth tobacco users has revealed that youth menthol smokers ... smoke 60% more cigarettes than their non-menthol smoking peers. The study also revealed that youth menthol smokers are three times less likely to quit smoking than non-menthol smokers." (Source: Campaign for a Smoke Free Alberta.)

It is disappointing, therefore, that menthol is not on the list of banned substances at present. I note, though, that the minister has committed to further consultation on menthol at committee. He has also indicated this will take place fairly soon. There is still opportunity to advance a menthol ban. The AMA will advocate accordingly as will the Canadian Cancer Society, Action on Smoking on Health and many others. You may wish to contact your MLA to share your views on this important topic.

The emphasis of this letter has been the menthol exemption, but I do want to commend government for implementing the other provisions that I described above. Reducing children's exposure to smoke and making tobacco less accessible and more expensive for youth are sound strategies. These amendments are significant steps forward in the fight against tobacco. We will continue to push forward to win the battle completely.

I always appreciate your comments on this or other things that may be on your mind. Email president@albertadoctors.org or leave a comment.

Regards,

Richard G.R. Johnston, MD, MBA, FRCPC
President