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25
Alcoholism.
In 7 cases death was certified to be due to Alcoholism, and 10
persons died from Cirrhosis of the Liver, a disease usually attributed
to the consumption of alcohol. The total number of deaths recorded
as due to alcohol was, therefore, 17, as compared with 14 in 1906,
but this is certainly an under-statement of the total mortality that
may be directly attributed to this drug. Deaths due to alcoholism,
especially those occurring in the higher social ranks, are often certified
to be due to some less invidious condition. If death certificates,
instead of being handed to the patient's relatives, were sent by the
certifying practitioner direct to the Registrar, there is little doubt
that the recorded mortality from alcoholism and certain other diseases
would soon show a marked increase.
During the year it was decided to reprint the Council's placard
on Alcoholism in the form of a handbill.
A copy of the handbill was sent to every minister of religion
and every medical practitioner in Hampstead with an intimation
that further copies for distribution would be sent if required.
Many requests for copies were received, and in this way over
6,000 handbills were distributed. The handbill is in the following
terms:—
BOROUGH OF HAMPSTEAD.
Physical Deterioration and Alcohol.
The report of the Committee on Physical Deterioration, presented
to Parliament by command of His Majesty, emphasises the following
facts:—
The abuse of alcoholic- stimulants is a most potent and deadly agent
of physical deterioration.
If the mother as well as the father is given to drink the future of
the race is imperilled.
Abstinence from alcohol is conducive to full physical strength and
activity.
Alcoholic persons are specially liable to consumption and all
inflammatory diseases.