View report page

4
The Infant Mortality Rate, I am glad to report, continues to
be low, and generally the vital statistics compare favourably with
the rest of the country.
The reduction in the number of deaths by 62 is due mainly
to 38 less from Cancer and 54 less from vascular lesions of the
nervous system, but those from Pneumonia and Bronchitis have
increased by 28.
Deaths from Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Cancer of the lungs
are slightly less at 14 from Pulmonary Tuberculosis and 52 from
Cancer of the lungs, this latter figure being a continuing disturbing
feature of the statistics, about which there is much speculation in
regard to the inhalation of carcinogenic lung irritants, but at present
little definite proof although considerable statistical evidence in
certain instances.
With regard to Infectious Diseases there was a marked increase
in the number of cases of measles, only 2 of which, however, were
admitted to Hospital. There was a notable reduction in cases
of whooping cough, only 15 cases notified, none of which was
admitted to Hospital. There was also a notable reduction in the
number of cases of Scarlet Fever and only 16 were removed to
Hospital.
Unfortunately, poliomyelitis was more prevalent than during
the previous year, 20 cases occurring and 3 adults dying of the
disease. Although each case was carefully investigated no significant
environmental or other factor was elicited.
Apart from Pneumonia, Tuberculosis, and Poliomyelitis, the
only other death from notifiable disease was one from Meningococcal
infection.
With the complete absence of Diphtheria from Enfield for 7
years and the reduction in the numbers of other infectious diseases
requiring Hospital admission, the beneficial effects of the preventive
health services, not only to the individual, but to the Hospital
and other medical services, can be assessed.
The main details and comments on the widespread responsibilities
of the Department are given elsewhere in this Report and
although no mention is made of the extensive range of personal
health services for which I am responsible to the County Council,
every endeavour is made to secure close co-operation and integration
of all authorities and agencies working in the wide sphere of Health,
Welfare and Social Services.