Believe It Or Not, The Nicotine Dose In Cigarettes Is Being Increased

Bob Carroll

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When individual lawsuits are tried before a jury in Florida I hope the judges will allow us to inform the jury of evidence that the tobacco industry has continued to increase the nicotine dosage in cigarettes, at least from 1998 through 2004. While smokers have been trying to quit, big tobacco has been spiking its products to make quitting more difficult.

US Cigarettes Have 10% More Nicotine Today Than Six Years Ago

All tobacco brands have been increasing the nicotine dosage in each cigarette steadily during the last six years, says a report from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. The overall increase has been about 10% during 1998-2004. The higher the nicotine dose, the more hooked you get - it is much more difficult to quit.

The only conclusion one could come to is that the tobacco industry has taken steps to secure sales by making people more addicted.

Marlboro, the most popular brand, has been steadily raising the dosage in each cigarette. Kool, a popular menthol brand, has had its nicotine dose increased by 20% in six years. Over 60% of African-American smokers consume menthol brands.

Of concern to many parents is this quote from the report:
"Marlboro, Newport, and Camel, the three most popular brands chosen by young smokers, all delivered significantly more nicotine."