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(g) Heart Disease and Rheumatism. During the year there
were found in the course of routine and special inspections 14
children suffering from organic and 50 from functional affection
of the heart and 36 cases of rheumatism.
All children suffering from organic disease of the heart or who
have a history of having suffered from rheumatism, which is the
main cause of heart disease, are kept under particular supervision.
They attend the Health Centre for examination at frequent intervals,
the length of which depends on their condition, and parents are
advised as to treatment. A report on the home conditions in
each case is made by the Sanitary Inspector, 36 such reports being
made during the past year, and defects such as dampness are
remedied.
(h) Tuberculosis.—Eleven children were referred to the
Tuberculosis Officer for supervision, ten being suspected of having
tuberculosis of the lungs and one of abdominal tuberculosis.
(i) Orthopaedic Treatment.—During the year the Ortho
paedic Surgeon saw for the first time, on the occasion of his fortnightly
visits, 85 school children suffering from crippled conditions,
lateral curvature and round shoulders. There were 256 reinspections
of these children and of others already undergoing
treatment. Some of the cases of lateral curvature and round
shoulders were only mildly affected and were completely cured
after treatment of but a few months' duration. Six children
received operative treatment at the National Orthopaedic Hospital
and 56 were advised massage and special exercises. The attendances
for massage or special exercises numbered 1,652. Five children were
supplied with surgical appliances which were ordered by the
Surgeon.
In addition to the school children, 72 children under five
years of age were submitted for a first examination by the Surgeon,
187 re-inspections being necessary. The attendances of those
requiring massage numbered 518. Eight operations were performed
at the Hospital on children under school age. Eight children were
supplied with special boots or surgical appliances.