Behavior intentions of the public after bans on smoking in restaurants and bars

Am J Public Health. 1997 Dec;87(12):2042-4. doi: 10.2105/ajph.87.12.2042.

Abstract

Objectives: This study assessed the potential effect of smoke-free policies on bar and restaurant patronage.

Methods: Random-digit dialing techniques were used in surveying a representative sample of Massachusetts adults (n = 2356) by telephone.

Results: Approximately 61% of the respondents predicted no change in their use of restaurants in response to smoke-free policies, 30% predicted increased use, and 8% predicted decreased use. In turn, 69% of the respondents predicted no change in their patronage of bars, while 20% predicted increased use and 11% predicted decreased use.

Conclusions: These results suggest that smoke-free policies are likely to increase overall patronage of bars and restaurants.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Feeding Behavior / psychology*
  • Forecasting
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Health Policy / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Humans
  • Massachusetts
  • Restaurants / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Smoking / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Smoking / psychology
  • Smoking Prevention*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires