Study on Switching from Menthol to Non-Menthol Cigarettes and Its Effect on Inflammation Related to Heart Health

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to study how switching from menthol to non-menthol cigarettes affects markers of inflammation in the body, which can indicate risk for heart disease. The study focuses on adult smokers who currently use menthol cigarettes and investigates changes in their smoking behavior, feelings related to smoking, and biomarkers of inflammation as a subclinical measure of cardiovascular health. Participants who smoke menthol cigarettes will take part in a five-week study. The first week is a baseline period where they continue smoking menthol cigarettes. Then, for the following four weeks, they will switch to study-provided non-menthol cigarettes that closely match their usual brand. Researchers will collect blood samples at four points to analyze inflammation markers and tobacco exposure. Participants will also report their smoking patterns and subjective experiences using ecological momentary assessment methods. During the study, participants will visit regularly for blood sample collection and assessments of smoking behavior, cravings, and feelings related to smoking. The primary outcomes include measuring high sensitivity C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, and a cytokine panel after four weeks of switching cigarettes. Secondary measures include blood pressure and heart rate. The total participation time is five weeks, including baseline and switching periods, with ongoing monitoring of biomarkers and subjective responses.

Menthol, Inflammation, and Nicotine Transition Study