Everyone knew the dangers of smoking. Smoking bans were mostly based on the dangers of second hand smoke, which are basically non-existent. So all these bans were pushed through on the power of "fake news".
Also, second-hand smoke does have negative health consequences AND in an enclosed, unventilated area like a bar or restaurant, it is impossible to avoid having the smell cling to your clothes and hair. I smoke occasionally, but it's a disgusting and filthy habit and I don't want to assault someone else's senses, similar to reheating fish in the office microwave.
It's way easier to breath as an asthmatic, though I'm sure it was affecting others.
It's good to not come back home smelling like an ashtray.
One good thing, is that was a way of breaking the ice to talk to people.
It also shows some rebuttals by tobacco sponsored research.