According to the study, how many smokers said they preferred menthol cigarettes?

It is estimated that over 400,000 Americans every year die of smoking related diseases. But kicking the habit is not so easy. A new study finds that smokers who smoke menthol cigarettes could have more trouble trying to quit compared to people who use non-menthol cigarettes. When a study began in 1985, 1,500 smokers had a medical exam and answered the questions about their smoking habits. 63% of the smokers said they preferred menthol cigarettes, and these smokers who preferred menthols were less likely to have quit smoking after 15 years. 69% of the menthol smokers were still smoking when researchers asked again about smoking habits in the year 2000. Among people who had originally preferred non-menthol cigarettes, 54% were still smoking in 2000. The researchers say that both menthol and non-menthol cigarettes are equally dangerous, but menthol cigarettes may actually be harder to quit.

Seems like there is good news for Americans who like to tip one bacchic at happy hour or relax with a glass of wine after work. A recent study by two economists shows drinkers earn more than teetotalers. In fact the data that published in a journal of labor research shows drinkers earn 10%-14% more than people who avoid alcohol altogether. The researchers say this disparity in pay might be explained by the fact drinkers have wider social networks. They argue this enables drinkers to get better jobs and business opportunities, truly increase social capital. But the study has its critics, they point out the researchers founded their work with money from libertarian think tank the Reason Foundation. That group has been fighting in- creased regulation and taxation of alcohol around the country. The authors of the study do point out social drinking has its limits. Having more than 21 servings of alcohol a week they say actually reduces earning potential. One could say all things in moderation.