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2
REPORT
of the Medical Officer of Health
for the Year 1945.
To the Mayor, Aldermen and Councillors
of the Metropolitan Borough of Wandsworth.
Sir, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I beg to present my Annual Report on the health of the
Rorough for the year 1945, together with the Report of the
Public Analyst.
Although the number of births shows a further increase
over the previous year, the birth rate of 16.94 is lower than in
1944 when it was 17.39, owing to the fact that the estimated
population on which the rate is calculated, is higher.
In spite of an increase in the population, the death rate
has fallen from 1G.40 in 1944, to 1269. This is mainly
accounted for by a decrease in the number of deaths from
violent causes. It is also gratifying to note that the deaths
from Cancer have fallen from 604 in 1944 to 537.
The number of deaths from tuberculosis has fallen from
201 to 179, and the death rate from this disease is .67 compared
wth .79 in 1944.
There has been a large increase in the number of cases
of Measles, but this has not been attended by a corresponding
increase in the mortality.
The number of children immunised against diphtheria has
increased, and there are now eight clinics open every week.
Children have received immunising injections at these clinics
for whooping cough, and there is quite a demand from parents
for these injections.
186 women were admitted to the Council's Maternity Home,
which was re-opened at the end of February after being
evacuated to Bolton in August, 1944.
12 War Time Nurseries have been open throughout the
year, and there is still much demand for Nursery accommodation
for children.
I am, Sir, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
F.G, CALEY,
Medical Officer of Health.