Objective: Norway was one of the first countries to ban smoking in cafes, bars and restaurants in June 2004. Sweden passed a similar law in 2005. In Finland legislation is pending political discussions.
Methods: The Nordic cancer societies have played an active role in the work towards a ban on tobacco smoke in the Nordic coutries. It is our understanding that our experience may have an impact on other countries' effort to decrease tobacco use.
Results: The restaurant business' fear for a turnover decrease has not materialized in Norway. On the contrary, there has been an increase in both sales and guests. Enforcing the law has so far not been a problem. The business and law enforcement work hand in hand here.
