Smoky bars and restaurants: who avoids them and why?

J Public Health Manag Pract. 1999 Jan;5(1):74-8. doi: 10.1097/00124784-199901000-00011.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to provide new insight into who avoids smoky places, the types of places they avoid, and the reasons they give. A representative sample of Massachusetts adults (N = 4,929) was surveyed by telephone during 1995 and 1996. Forty-six percent of non-smokers reported having avoided a smoky place. Reasons were aversion to the lingering smell (34.8%) and health issues (31.9%). Many adults avoid restaurants and bars because of the expectation of excessive environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). Patronage may increase after smoke-free policies are implemented and nonsmokers become aware of the opportunity to dine in establishments free of ETS.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Health Behavior*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Massachusetts
  • Restaurants* / economics
  • Smoking / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Smoking Prevention*
  • Tobacco Smoke Pollution / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Tobacco Smoke Pollution / prevention & control*

Substances

  • Tobacco Smoke Pollution