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Phenylketonuria
During the year 3,877 regular screening tests of the urine of babies for
phenylketonuria were carried out. Although no positive cases were found, the
knowledge that children may be saved mental deterioration by this means of early
detection is sufficient incentive to the health visitors, who willingly carry out the
large number of tests.
"Battered Babies" Syndrome
The attention of medical officers and health visitors has been drawn by the
National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and by a principal
medical officer of the Ministry of Health to the "battered baby" syndrome. A
number of incidents of young children, mostly under one year of age who have been
taken to hospital with unexplained multiple injuries, have been described. In a
number of cases the cause of the injuries was found to be due to physical cruelty by
the parents. The health visitor, particularly with her close contact with families,
is in the best position to recognise home conditions which might lead to such
tragedies, and to report on actual cases. I am glad to say no incidents were reported
this year.
Family Planning
The Council has made arrangements for advice and treatment (including
supplies) without charge through the Family Planning Association for women to
whom pregnancy would be detrimental to health. Two women were referred
during the year.
The wider need of planned parenthood, where no specific danger to health
exists and which falls outside the statutory scope of a local health authority, is
met by the Family Planning Association and general medical practitioners.
Nevertheless, a local health authority, recognising this important aspect of family
welfare, can assist a voluntary association.
The Council makes available, free of charge, clinic premises to the Family
Planning Association.
In addition, annual financial contribution is made to the Association.
Family planning is also included in the health education activities of the
Health Department.
Day Nurseries
There is one 55 place day nursery approved for training in the Borough.
Other provisions include up to twelve places in a day nursery in the London Borough
of Haringey and a few places in one in the London Borough of Barnet.
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