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of residents in this area have, in addition, been X-rayed
in nearby London, where they work, it is safe to assume
that the special measures which have been taken may have
made a significant contribution towards a reduction of mortality
from tuberculosis. This is, however, only one aspect
of the measures against tuberculosis. The vaccination of
older school children (13 years and over), the constant
search for unsuspected cases through the tracing of contacts
of known sources of infection and, as far as the
housing situation will allow, the amelioration of living conditions
of tuberculous families, have an equally important
part to play.
During 1959 there were 24 deaths from cancer of the
lung compared with 22 deaths in 1958 and 21 deatns in
1957. Approximately half the cases occurred in persons
between the ages of 45 and 65 years of age and this mortality
in the prime of life is particularly deplorable at a
time when the expectation of life in general is said to be
increasing. There are no signs that recent publicity relating
to the association between heavy cigarette smoking and
this form of cancer, which is regarded by responsible
authorities as proved, has resulted in any significant reduction
of the smoking habit.
Deaths from coronary heart diseases numbered 83
(compared with 76, 61 and 59 in the three preceding years.)
Here again, the majority of these deaths occurred in the
fifth and sixth decades of life, men being far more affected
than women.
During 1959 the Health Committee gave consideration
to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government Circular
57/59 which set out the proposed division of responsibility
between the various central departments concerned with
the control of radioactivity. It is clear that the Government
are of the opinion that little active part will be played by
the local authorities in the over-sight, in their own areas,
of hazaids arising from this source. Nevertheless, it is
hardly to be expected that local authorities will not feel
that they are bound to consider with some anxiety the
environmental hazards which may affect their districts and.
notwithstanding the complexity of the subject, they may
well turn to their medical officers of health to interpret any
local developments in this field. The training of appropriate
members of public health staffs is, therefore, a matter or
great importance. This has been recognised by the Veale
Committee which reported in February, 1960.