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Town Hall,
Hammersmith, W. 6.
To the Mayor, Aldermen and Councillors
of the Metropolitan Borough of Hammersmith
Mr. Mayor, Ladles and Gentlemen,
I have very much pleasure In presenting to you my Annual Report
on the health circumstances of the Borough for the year 1956. Once
again, I regret that It was not possible to publish It earlier, as the
Registrar General's figures required to calculate the various rates
are not available sooner.
We have been fortunate In having no dangerous Infectious disease
for many years now. Last year's epidemic of paralytic poliomyelitis
has not been repeated and one hopes that with vaccination gaining momentum
we shall be better protected In future. Fatal and paralytic cases so
often occur in adult life, and age groups at present vaccinated are
much too restricted to reduce epidemics to any marked extent. It is
felt, now that the public have accepted poliomyelitis vaccination, a
more ambitious programme should be attempted and more age groups should
be protected.
Our control over Infant and maternal mortality, and tuberculosis,
continues to result in saving countless numbers of lives, but on the
debit side, cancer of the lung and disease of the heart continue to
Increase.
There has not been a death from diphtheria for 12 years, and this
"scourge of the twenties and thirties", like scarlet fever, has vanished,
possibly temporarily, as a menace to public health.
In conclusion, I wish to express my Indebtedness for the encouragement
shown and support given me at all times by the Chairman, VlceChairman
and Members of the Health committee and to record my thanks to
the Staff of the Department for their loyal co-operation In maintaining
a high standard of efficiency throughout the year.
I am, your Worship, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
F.M. DAY,
Medical Officer of Health,
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