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13
The speed and strain of modern civilisation is thought to have a
great bearing on these so-called "stress" diseases but stress, which is
recognised as a predisposing factor in the increased incidence of cardiac
disability is a somewhat vague term. However, some of the following
circumstances undoubtedly give rise to "stress" as we understand it
today.
Living Standards.—As living standards rise, not unnaturally
there is an increase in "high-living" which generally goes hand in
hand with bigger meals and an increased intake of fatty foods.
This in turn gives rise to over-weight and obesity.
Single mindedness—The concentration on a narrow field or
single motive constitutes a "stress". All classes are susceptible
from the housewife or humble clerk to the managing director.
Indolence.—Inactivity, perhaps largely enforced, by persons
having to travel long distances to work, to conferences or to
customers by car or train, results in muscles being unable to
respond to a call for unusual effort and, with the heart, there is
often no recovery.
Smoking.—Over recent years there has been a substantial
rise in tobacco consumption. Nicotine is known as a cardiac
poison which in many instances blunts the desire for physical
effort.
Modern Living.—An environment of noise, petty irritations,
current news, jobs with a time limit, results in an increase in
adrenalin demand. Eventually the environment wins and there
is a breakdown.

means figure not available, *R,G, Code Nos, 19 and 20. †R.G. Code No. 21.