View report page

27 [1919
Pulmonary Phthisis—This disease, which is the principal one of the
group, caused 388 deaths, as contrasted with the decennial average of 446,
while the death-rate was 1.18 per 1,000 of the civil population, as against the
decennial rate of 1.41 per 1,000. It shows a decrease of 58 on the number of
deaths and 0.23 on the mean death-rate. The death-rate from Phthisis rose
from 1.26 per 1,000 of the population, in 1913 to 1.80 in 1918, which was
the highest rate recorded during 10 years.
It is satisfactory to note that there was a slight decline in the death rate
from this disease during 1919, but the decrease is very small. Indeed, when
contrasted with the average rate of the previous ten years, it is found that it
only amounted to 0.23 per 1,000 of the population, which is equal to 58 deaths.
There is no doubt, however, that a decreased mortality, notwithstanding
the exertions of the tuberculosis dispensaries, will be only gradua
although with improved hcusing and improved living of the working classes a
quickened decrease ought to be expected.
The work before the sanitary authorities of the country is still very great,
and good can only be effected by a continuous effort to improve the conditions
under which the people live, together with the provision of cheaper food and
the adoption of improved habits.
It will be noticed from a statement given onp age 41 that the greatest
number of attacks occurred in the period of early manhood, i.e., from 15-45
years, when 62.4 per cent, of the persons were attacked. The attack rate then
went on 18.4 between the ages of 45-65 and finally decreased to 2.2 in the
remaining period of life. These figures, however, include all the varied forms
of tuberculosis, and are set out in the table given on paee 41.