Smoking Bans Don't Always Work So Well

It's a continuous struggle to stop or, better yet, prevent cigarette smoking addiction.

Findings published in the journal Nicotine & Tobacco Research show that governmental smoking bans don't seem to be helping smokers quit.

Researchers at Concordia University have found no significant evidence that smoking bans stop in-home smoking habits.

"What distinguishes people who restrict smoking at home is the presence of a non-smoker," said Sylvia Kairouz, an associate professor in Concordia's Department of Sociology and Anthropology, in a news release. "The social network seems to be more of a factor than the law."

Researchers studied data from a representative cross-section of the population via a smoking ban in Quebec, Canada that took effect back in May 2006. Then, they followed up a year and a half later.

Growing awareness of the health impact of secondhand smoke contributed to the stricter laws with a number of those who kept the nasty habit up at home, even though they said they were trying to reduce nicotine exposure to others.

"The popular belief is that opening windows or doors to blow out smoke makes it OK, when that's not the case," Kairouz added. "People might be sensitive to the issues, but there was a lack of information about how the effects of second-hand smoke are transmitted."

"There needs to be an integrated approach of ecological measures along with taxation, prevention and information," Kairouz concluded. "But one of the most important components is to have public health services available for people who are trying to quit."

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