In 1965, Dr Erika JK. Rosenthal conducted a large questionnaire survey in schools to collect epidemiologic data on the distribution and risk factors of smoking in children and adolescents (1, 2). 60 years later we followed her with our investigation (3). So much has changed over this time. In the past, more boys smoked than did girls; electronic cigarettes did not exist. Some risk factors are, however, just as relevant as back then: the influence of the social environment, primarily of parents, or even the social stratum.
We extend cordial thanks to Dr Rosenthal for her gracious comment on our study. We are pleased that she follows the articles in medical journals so attentively. The fact that she remains at the cutting edge of science is also shown by her mention of the new nicotine pouches. We will happily follow her advice and regularly include these in our data collections in the future.
Footnotes
Conflict of interest statement
RH acts in an honorary/voluntary capacity in the Aktionsbündnis Nichtrauchen (the non-smoking action alliance).
JH declares that no conflict of interest exists.
References
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