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The usual features will again be noted, viz.—the increasing frequency
with advancing age, and the high proportion in which the stomach,
intestines or breast are affected. This year the chief increase is in
the number of cases connected with the intestines and lungs, the latter
again chiefly in males, thus reflecting tendencies which can be noted
in the national death rates from this disease.
The Medical Officer of Health continues to act as local Medical
Secretary to the British Empire Cancer Campaign, but no applications
for speakers on this subject were received during the year. Local
societies might well consider including speakers on the subject of
Cancer when preparing their programmes for the coming year.
While much further effort is required, and is being given along
the line of research into the cause, prevention and treatment of cancer,
it should be more generally recognised that at the present time cancer
can very frequently be cured, if only recognised early enough, and the
best available treatment secured. The responsibility for obtaining
early examination rests with the individual resident.
The symptoms which call for most attention are persistent or
repeated pain, bleeding, swelling, early morning diarrhoea, increasing
constipation, or difficulty in passing water.
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