Tabakkonsum im gesellschaftlichen Wandel. Verbreitung des Konsums und Einstellung zu Rauchverboten, Düsseldorf 1997–2009

Abstract

Since the late 1990s several measures have been introduced in Germany to curb tobacco use and to protect non-smokers. Smoking bans in public spaces, including restaurants and pubs, are part of them. It is the aim of the paper to analyse the change in smoking prevalence and attitudes towards smoking bans in the population of Düsseldorf, Germany, over time. Random samples from the population register of the city of Düsseldorf of persons with German nationality, 18 years onwards were approached. Mail surveys were sent with up to 3 reminders in the years 1997, 1998, 2004, 2007 and 2009. Response rates were between 52% and 59% (N per date of comparison ca. 700-1 200). The number of daily smokers has declined between 1997/98 and 2009 from 33% to 21%. Likewise, the number of cigarettes smoked per day has declined. The number of respondents who favour smoking bans has increased. Rather than favouring a total ban, a partial ban is often preferred (with a zone for smokers). Whether a smoking ban is favoured depends on whether the respondent is using tobacco and whether dangers are ascribed to tobacco use and tobacco smoke. Self-rated health does not exert an impact on attitudes towards smoking bans with the exception of the most recent survey, done in 2009. Here those respondents were most often in favour of bans who considered their health as being very good. Possibly this reflects a new situation where the acceptance of smoking bans has become part of a self-perceived healthy lifestyle.