More Americans Favor Outlawing Smoking
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
By: Alicia Mandigo

A new Gallup poll says one in five Americans want to ban smoking outright over concerns about second and third hand smoke

[More Americans think smoking should be illegal]

22-percent of us say banning smoking in public places isn’t good enough- smoking should be completely illegal.  That’s up from 12-percent in 2007. American Lung Association Area Director Janelle Middents says the new Gallup poll reflects a growing concern over second and even third hand smoke. Third hand smoke is smoking residue that gets imbedded in things like upholstery, dry wall and carpeting.

“It can stay there for weeks months and even years. You’re seeing the conversation starting where people are being very aware of being exposed to these chemicals and the dangers that it puts to their long term health,” says Middents.

Studies have shown third hand smoke can damage DNA. The Gallup poll showed some regional differences in attitudes towards smoking.  Eastern and Western states have the highest number of people who would support a total ban on smoking, while people in mid-western states showed the lowest support for making smoking illegal.