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Phenylketonuria—Guthrie Test
Phenylketonuria is a metabolic disorder which causes mental
retardation unless detected and treated from the neo-natal period.
Development of a reliable blood test (the Guthrie Test) has
enabled an early diagnosis to be made of this condition and during
1969 there were arrangements between the local hospitals and the
Department for all infants whether at home or in hospital to have
this test on the 6th day of life. In the case of domiciliary births
and early discharge cases the Local Authority midwives take the
blood specimens and despatch them to the laboratory.
No cases of Phenylketonuria were detected during 1969.
Midwifery Training—Part II
A scheme for the training of midwives is undertaken in
co-operation with the British Hospital for Mothers and Babies,
with each pupil spending 3 months on the district.
No. of Pupils completing Course during year 24
No. of Pupils in Training at 31/12/69 7*
*British Hospital for Mothers and Babies 5
Greenwich District Hospital (from Sept. 1969) 2
Refresher Courses
In accordance with the rules of the Central Midwives Board,
three midwives attended Statutory Refresher Courses during the
year, each of one week's duration.
In addition, midwives were released for courses as under :—
4 Preparation for Parenthood (6-week day release)
1 Family Planning Seminar (1 day)
11 Study Day—B.H.M.B.
Cervical Cytology
Attendances at Local Authority cytology clinics again fell
despite publicity and encouragement given by health visitors and
midwives. However, the picture indicated by Borough statistics
does not necessarily reflect the national trend in the use of this
screening service, since the impetus of general practitioners to
undertake this work on behalf of their own patients has undoubtedly
led to many women being investigated in the surgery of their
family doctor. The total number of smears taken in these circumstances is not available.
The following statistics indicate the volume and type of work
undertaken at the various clinics during the year:—