View report page

ously the aged grandparents and the young family. It is well known
to all working in this field that the lonely aged form the greatest
problem.
Lung Cancer:
Much has been written about the rising incidence of cancer of
the lung. The weight of medical evidence points to the fact that
heavy tobacco smoking, particularly of cigarettes, is a factor in its
causation. To all, therefore, the answer is apparent, but to some
of us who are heavily addicted—the national consumption of tobacco
appears to be on the increase—the solution is not easy. I would
therefore recommend that all smokers should endeavour firstly to
cut down on the amount of tobacco consumed, and secondly to obtain
a medical examination including chest X-ray, twice yearly, and at
least annually. It must be realised, however, that this preventative
measure does not imply that one would then be perfectly safe. No
such guarantee can be given. Apropos of this medical examination,
it must be pointed out that such a routine examination is not a duty
of the family practitioner under the National Health Service Act, but
chest X-rays can be obtained through mass radiography units.
CONCLUSION:
I must mention here the help of the family doctors to this
Department throughout the year. Their co-operation and assistance
is much appreciated.
In conclusion, may I thank you for your warm and cordial
welcome to me on coming to the Borough of Finchley in July, 1958,
and for the support and encouragement of the Chairman and Members
of the Health Committee. I would draw your attention to the
loyalty and fidelity of the staff of this Department, and I would also
like to thank the Chief Officers and members of other Departments,
without whose help this report could not be completed.
I am,
Your obedient servant,
J. G. HAGAN,
Medical Officer of Health
9