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Of the above number 24 were boys and 31 girls.
The number of neo-natal deaths, i.e., those dying before
attaining the age of one month, was 28, which is equivalent to
52.7 per cent. of total Infantile Mortality deaths as compared with
66 per cent. for the previous year. 23 of these died in the first
week. As usual the principal causes of this class were Prematurity
and Congenital Malformations.
In London the health services are now so comprehensive,
that all Expectant and Nursing Mothers have the advantage of
obtaining advice at Ante-Natal and Post-Natal Clinics either
through the Borough Council, the L.C.C. or Voluntary Hospitals.
As a result of investigations it was ascertained that in 6 cases the
mother was under the care of her own doctor; 8 cases had had no
supervision whatever. Two of the latter were no doubt of illegitimate
origin, being found in the River Thames, whilst in one case the
mother was admitted to hospital in a serious condition of health in
early pregnancy to which she subsequently succumbed.
Deaths of Children 1—5 Years of Age.—The number of
deaths of children between the ages of 1 and 2 years was 7 and
between 2 and 5 years 4. The previous year the figures were 9 and
7 respectively.
Maternal Mortality.—The number of deaths from Puerperal
Sepsis and other accidents and diseases of pregnancy was 2, which
gives a maternal Death Rate of 1.5 per 1,000 total live Births.
In the years 1934, 1935, 1936 and 1937, there were 4, 5, 2 and 2
deaths respectively.
Maternity Home.—The number of patients admitted during
the year was 380, of which 41 cases were admitted from the Centres
for ante-natal treatment for periods varying from 2 to 7 days.
The number of cases delivered by the Midwives of the Home
was 307, the remainder by the Medical Staff. In 38 instances
medical assistance was sought by the Midwives.