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The vital statistics for the Borough show that the Birth Rate was somewhat
lower than that for England and Wales, as was also the Death Rate. It is satisfactory
to note that there were no maternal deaths. There were only 7 deaths from respiratory
tuberculosis, but in contrast to this, there were 191 deaths from cancer of the
lung and bronchus, of which no less than 164 were males. The total deaths from
cancer amounted to the disquieting figure of 698 and there were 713 deaths from
coronary disease (angina). The Infant Mortality Rate of 18.12 compares favourably
with that of 19 for England and Wales which is the lowest ever recorded for the
country as a whole.
With regard to the Department's responsibilities for the care of mothers and
young children, this report shows the successful continuation of the basic traditional
services provided in the home, at the clinics and in the nurseries; moreover, the
statistical tables emphasize the continuing demand and need for these services.
Although the Borough is fortunate in the number and standard of its various
clinic premises, the Ten-Year Plan makes provision for securing completely adequate
modern facilities, including health centres. Indeed, a new clinic was constructed at
Hadley Wood during the year, and progress was made with plans for a health centre
and two new clinics to replace inadequate or rented accommodation.
The Council expressed some concern over the registration of child minders
and private day nurseries, and undertook a survey and review of the position.
The health and welfare of long-stay immigrants received particular attention
during the year and limited success was achieved in this direction.
By the end of the year, all arrangements had been made for the inauguration
of a service for population screening for cancer of the cervix of the uterus, from
which disease thirteen women in the Borough died during the year.
The Health Visiting, Midwifery, Home Nursing and Home Help Services
continued at full pressure during the year. The Midwifery Service, in addition to
normal maternity care, successfully participated in "planned early hospital discharge"
schemes, and undertook effective care of premature babies at home. A
notable volume and variety of work was undertaken by the home nurses. The
serious shortage of health visitors has been a continuing source of concern, and
a critical stage is approaching. The number of home helps seems never to be quite
adequate to meet demand.
The prevailing emphasis on community care in the mental health field is clearly
seen in the Council's Ten-Year Plan for the Health Service, and should adequately
demonstrate the Council's determination that this branch of the service will develop
as quickly as possible.
Excellent provision has already been made in many directions as evidenced
by the acceptance of a realistic establishment of officers (including two part-time
Consultant Psychiatrists in an advisory capacity) and the opportunities provided
by the Council for staff to take special training in their duties.
The present local facilities include a junior training school with special care
unit, an adult training centre with sheltered workshop, industrial emplovment.
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