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Abstract

This study investigated the association between sociodemographic characteristics and public attitudes toward Tobacco 21 laws. Through a random telephone survey in 2017, 1,675 Kentucky adults were asked if they favored/opposed increasing the minimum legal age to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 21 years of age. Over half (57.9%) favored raising the minimum legal age for tobacco sales to 21 (95% confidence interval: [54.5, 61.2]). Multivariable logistic regression for weighted survey data was used to determine factors associated with support. In the adjusted analysis, older age, female sex, non-White, conservative political ideology (versus moderate), and support for a statewide smoke-free policy were each significantly associated with greater support for Tobacco 21. The results suggest multiple demographic and personal factors associated with support, even in a tobacco-growing state. Health care professionals, including nurses, must understand existing public attitudes to effectively advocate for tobacco policies in states with high tobacco use.

Keywords

smoking prevention tobacco policy health policy young adult

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Support for Tobacco 21 in a Tobacco-Growing State

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