London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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Lambeth 1971

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Lambeth Borough]

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44
D. Inspections during year -
First inspections 485 10
Patients in above who required
treatment 220 10
Patients in above who were offered
treatment 219 10
Number of dental officer sessions (i.e.
equivalent half days) devoted to
maternity and child welfare patients
during the period 126.0
CERVICAL CYTOLOGY
A limited service of screening for cancer of the cervix began in Lambeth
clinics in May 1966 under Section 28 of the National Health Service Act 1946.
A shortage of pathological facilities, particularly trained laboratory technicians,
was the limiting factor at that time and priority was given to women aged 35
years and over. Increased hospital resources have since been allocated to expand
cytological services and smear tests can now be offered to all women living or
working in Lambeth.
A total of six sessions per week are held in Lambeth clinics and, in
addition to the smear test for cervical cancer, a full gynaecological examination
is carried out and patients are examined clinically for signs of early breast
cancer. The closest co-operation is maintained with family doctors and hospital
services. Appointments for a repeat test after three years are offered to all
women attending the clinics.

Women over 35 years and those in socio-economic groups 1V and V are considered to be a high risk and the following details for 1971 are therefore particularly encouranging:

AttendancesSocio-Economic Group
Under 35581I357 .(16.0%)
Over 351,673II12 ( 0.5%)
III857 (38.0%)
Total2,254IV621 (27.5%)
V407 (18.0%)
2,254