FDA tobacco panel to examine health effects of menthol cigarettes; most believe ban unlikely

Summary Box: FDA examines menthol cigarettes

FDA MICROSCOPE: A new scientific panel will begin examining the public health effects of menthol-flavored cigarettes and recommend how the Food and Drug Administration should regulate them.

WHAT COULD HAPPEN: Most industry observers think a ban on the cigarettes is unlikely, but the FDA could also order a reduction in menthol levels, more prominent warning labels or other changes.

GROWING MARKET: The minty-flavored cigarettes are part of the cigarette market that’s relatively strong even as people smoke less overall.