Sociodemographic Correlates of Public Perceptions regarding a Smoking Ban in Bars and Restaurants

Abstract

As the health threat of environmental tobacco smoke is widely recognized, more state and local governments join the passage of ordinances that ban smoking in public establishments. This study investigated public perceptions regarding banning smoking in bars and restaurants among Indiana residents. A representative sample of 529 adult Indiana residents ages 18 or older was interviewed using random-digit dialing after two waves of pilot tests. Of the total respondents, 65% favored the smoking ban in bars and restaurants. Logistic regression analyses indicated that gender, education, and spouse's education were significant predictors for attitudes toward the smoking ban in bars and restaurants.