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which still require attention, e.g., the lowering of infantile mortality (already referred to) and the
prevention of consumption. On the latter point attention may be directed to the statistics given
011 pages 27 and 28 of the Report. The phthisis rate in Old Paddington used to be one of the
lowest in the Metropolis, and that of the Borough compares favourably with those of the
adjacent districts (See Table 21, page 16).* Nevertheless, the loss of 153 persons at the most
productive ages of life, from a disease which is very largely preventible, is a matter which
cannot be neglected. The figures given on page 28 show that there is an intimate connection
between the prevalence of this disease and the"housing"of the people, and, therefore, affords
better hope of success attending measures of prevention.
In conclusion, I desire to acknowledge my indebtedness to the Chairman and Members of
the Public Health Committee for the very sympathetic manner in which they have received
the recommendations I have placed before them. My thanks are due, and hereby heartily
tendered, to the Members of the Medical Profession practising in the Borough, from whom
I have received much useful information and help, especially in dealing with the outbreak of
small-pox. I wish also to place on record my appreciation of the work of the Staff of the
Department, no member of which has failed to respond to the calls for hard work, not only
during the ordinary hours of duty but at all other times.
I have the honour to be,
Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen,
Your most obedient Servant,
Reuiaw Puriee
m.a., m.b., d.p.h.,
Medical Officer of Health.
Public Health Department,
Howley Lodge, Harrow Road,
Paddington, W.
24th July, 1903.
*The rate in Willesden last year (omitted from the Table) was 0.90 per 1,000 persons.