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13
Defective Vision shews a slight increase amongst the routine cases and a
marked increase, 50 per cent., amongst the specials. It is difficult to account
for this increase, and I am unable to offer an explanation.
Diseases of the Ear.—There was a slight decrease in the number of
children found to be suffering from deafness apart from otitis, whilst the total
number of cases of this latter complaint which came under observation
numbered 229; for 1923 the corresponding figure was 234.
As many of these cases are chronic, it will be realised that the routine
cases of one year will become the specials for the next two years, and
conversely a proportion of the specials of one year will furnish those in the
routine group for next year.
Although this condition of "running from the ear" is treated at the
Minor Ailments Clinic, it is by no means a "minor ailment." It is indeed a
very serious complaint, and, being a potent cause of deafness, handicaps the
sufferer in many ways during life, apart from the actual danger to life. It is
high time it was lifted out of the category of "minor ailments."
Amongst preventive measures may be mentioned the removal of septic
tonsils and septic teeth, handkerchief drill, correct breathing through nose,
better ventilation of rooms and similar conditions which mean a healthy
naso-pharynx.
Nose and Throat.—This year's figures relating to the number of
cases of enlarged tonsils and adenoids are about the same as in previous years.
It will be interesting to note whether the excessive wet of this year will
increase or decrease this affection for next year—the increase due to cold and
naso-pharngeal affections, and the decrease due to a cleaner atmosphere.
"Other conditions" include mostly sore throats and nasal catarrhs.
Dental Defects.—The number of these defects found at routine
inspection form a lower percentage than that of last year. Whether it is the
result of treatment or whether it is simply a matter of luck, the reports for
following years will shew. The incidence amongst the various groups are
as follows:—
Infants 147 of 1,104 inspected ... 13 per cent.
Intermediate 70 ,, 990 ,, ... 7 „
Leavers 37 „ 1,053 » ••• 4,,