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7
Lung Cancer
"Several serious diseases, in particular lung cancer, affect smokers more often than
non-smokers. Cigarette smokers have the greatest risk of dying from this disease, and
the risk is greater for the heavier smokers. The many deaths caused by this disease
present a challenge to medicine for in so far as they are due to smoking they should be
preventable" (Report of the Royal College of Physicians on Smoking and Health, 1962).
During 1962 this most enlightened report was published by the Royal College of
Physicians on smoking in relation to cancer of the lung and other diseases, which
presented extensive evidence of the hazards of cigarette smoking, and concluded that it
is necessary for the health of the present population of this country, that any measures
which are practicable and likely to produce beneficial changes in smoking habits should
be taken promptly.
In Tottenham during 1962 88 deaths were caused by lung cancer, which represents
one death in every sixteen. This rate is approximately 50 per cent above the national
average, and the higher figure is probably associated with the additional hazard of
atmospheric pollution which is experienced in our greater cities.
Chronic Bronchitis - The English Disease
This crippling chest condition, which largely affects men in the 50-60 age group,
is now a major public health problem It is 40 times as high in this country as it is in
France, and it is much more common in towns than in the country. Atmospheric
pollution and smoking must be regarded as the principal causes.