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17
generally true to say that in the conditions existing here, the
Irish are five or six times more likely to become infected with
tuberculosis than the English, Cypriots twice as likely and
contrary to the usual belief negroes have only the same susceptibility
as the English. The last Census showed that more than
25 per cent, of the residents of Hampstead were born outside the
United Kingdom.
Further reasons for the high figures of notification of
tuberculosis in Hampstead are the excellent facilities which are
available and the very high standard of medical care which is
provided by the general medical practitioners. It is probable
that the ascertainment of cases of tuberculosis is better than
throughout the country and that in Hampstead there is a smaller
proportion of undiagnosed cases.
To summarise, the high figures of notifications of
tuberculosis in Hampstead are probably due to the changing
population, the high proportion of persons born abroad, and
the excellent facilities for diagnosis. I am much indebted
to the Chest Physician, Dr. G. Shneerson, for his help and
advice.
MASS X-RAY
During September and October the Mass X-ray Unit
visited Birchington Road, Iverson Road, Fortune Green, Haverstock
Hill, South End Green, High Street and Chalk Farm.
In addition to open sessions for the general inhabitants
of the Borough, the Unit arranged special private sessions for
many local firms. Altogether a total of 4,401 persons was
X-rayed. The best response was obtained at Haverstock Hill
and Fortune Green.
A complete report on the Unit's activities is not yet
available. In the event of any suspicious findings being shown
on the first X-ray, the patient is recalled for a large X-ray
and then if necessary referred to a chest clinic or the patient's
private doctor for further examination and tests. The final
report is not available therefore until some six months after
the Unit's visit.