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Perceptions of the Effect of an Impending Restaurant Smoking Ban on Dining-Out Experience

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Abstract

Background. The introduction of bans on smoking in restaurants is frequently marred by claims that they will lead to a loss of business.

Methods. A representative sample of 3,019 South Australians age 15+ years were asked questions about dining-out frequency and perceived effects of the ban on their dining-out enjoyment and restaurant patronage.

Results. Sixty-one percent thought the ban would make dining out more enjoyable, 5% thought it would be less enjoyable, and 34% thought it would make no difference. Overall, 82% thought the ban would make no difference to their likelihood of dining out, 14% would be more likely to dine out, and 4% would be less likely.

Conclusions. These data suggest that the public expects bans on smoking in restaurants to result in both increased enjoyment and increased patronage of restaurants.

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This study was funded by the South Australian Smoking and Health Project (an initiative of the Anti-Cancer Foundation and National Heart Foundation and funded by Living Health) and the South Australian Department of Human Services.

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