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The other outstanding event was the place given both nationally
and locally to health propaganda. The National Campaigns for the wider
use of the Health Services, and the encouragement of physical fitness
were emphasised within the District. While strong suspicions have
frequently been voiced both as to the objects underlying the Campaigns,
and their inadequacy in that they indicate only one or two lines along
which health may be improved or secured, it is surely folly if doubt
and criticisms such as these are made the excuse for non-co-operation
in an effort towards personal and national fitness. Whatever the original
motive may have been it can surely be agreed that the better our health
the greater the possibility of our enjoyment of life and of our individual
and corporate service to mankind. The word 'possibility' needs
emphasis, as, of course, the achievement of health, though a laudable
ideal, does not of itself necessarily imply greater resultant happiness.
The latter is undoubtedly what we all wish to attain ultimately, though
it is not an essential corollary to improved health. It is suggested,
however, that, if the aim of greater happiness for all is recognised, and
that clear thinking is given to the methods by which it may be secured,
better health may not only be achieved en route, but in its turn assist
in the attainment of the ideal.
The necessity not only for a high motive but for clear thinking
requires stressing, as in a world in which only a limited amount of our
resources are available annually for the "social services," these
require directing wisely if the pain and ill-health which tend to hamper
our individual and collective progress are to be removed. At a time
when large sums are being spent and additional expenditure is anticipated
on the achievement of health and fitness, the relative importance of
different methods needs careful balancing, and the part which individual
thought and effort can play must be borne in mind. As small examples,
of which many might be given, my attention has again been drawn
this year to the numerous comparatively small defects prejudicing the
health of a large number of residents, e.g., widely spread dental caries,
post-natal defects, hernias, varicose veins, indigestion and the like
remaining untreated when a relatively small amount of individual effort
and expense are required for their rectification.
The increase in the deaths from cancer and road accidents locally
this year, both influenced by the personal factor to a very appreciable
extent, are other examples, and the attention of local organisations
might well be given to these and similar subjects without necessitating
municipal outlay. The part played by social and economic factors
is also of great importance, but it is hoped that sufficient has been said
to stimulate thought and the recognition of the fact that much can be
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