Statistically Speaking

Two weeks ago, Carnegie Mellon students voiced their opinions on the proposed smoking ban. Each year, organizations like the American Lung Association conduct studies to measure the prevalence and effects of smoking on college campuses. Here are some statistics about cigarettes, college students, and where the two intersect:

Percentage of colleges that prohibit smoking in all indoor areas: 27

Average age at which college students tried their first cigarette: 14

Number of fires in dorms and fraternity and sorority houses each year that are caused by smoking: 187

Percentage of smokers who began smoking before their 21st birthday: 90

Percentage of current college smokers who tried, unsuccessfully, to quit smoking last year: 50