London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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Woolwich 1903

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Woolwich]

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79
Covered Seats on Plumstead Common.
57. I have on several occasions shown how greatly the
provision of covered seats would enhance the utility of Plumstead
Common as a resort for the delicate and invalids. The
London County Council was again asked by the Borough
Council to provide such seats, but replied by stating that while
unwilling to incur the expense itself, it had no objection to
the Borough Council providing them. Unfortunately, the
Borough has no authority to spend money in this way, and
consequently, invalids must still travel to the seaside or other
health resorts in order to enjoy advantages which might easily
be placed at their own doors.
Dentistry and the care of the Teeth.
58. One of the principal causes and accompaniments of
physical degeneration is early decay of the teeth. Whatever
is the cause of this decay, there is no doubt that it is easily
preventable if the teeth are properly cared for and systematic
resort had to the dentist. It is with pleasure that I have to
record that the Woolwich Guardians have recognised this, and
have appointed a dentist to examine and treat the teeth of the
children in the Goldie Leigh Homes, his duties being to preserve
the children's teeth, and so enable them to benefit by the food
they eat to a much greater extent than is possible to children
whose teeth are neglected.
Sanitary Staff.
59. There was no change in the Sanitary Staff during the
year. A list of the staff is given at the commencement of the
report.