London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972
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Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London
Havering 1971
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Havering]
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During 1971 90 babies were reported as suffering from congenital malformations, 111 different conditions being observed as set out in the following table:—
| Diagnostic Group | Number |
|---|---|
| 0 Central Nervous System | 19 |
| 1 Eye and Ear | 3 |
| 2 Alimentary System | 14 |
| 3 Heat and Circulatory System | 5 |
| 4 Respiratory System | — |
| 5 Urino-genital System | 13 |
| 6 Limbs | 38 |
| 7 Other Musculo-Skeletal | 1 |
| 8 Other Systems | 10 |
| 9 Other Malformations | 8 |
Phenylketonuria
The Guthrie test for detection of this rare metabolic disease
in new born babies which untreated can lead to severe mental
handicap continued in 1971, the laboratory service being provided
for this test by the Neo-natal Screening Service of the Hospital
for Sick Children. Equivocal results have a repeat test and one
baby was discovered suffering from this disease and immediate
hospital investigation and treatment were instituted and I am
pleased to say that to date normal progress and development has
been maintained.
Handicapped Pre-School Children
At the end of 1971, 246 handicapped pre-school children
were under regular supervision by doctors, health visitors and
educational psychologists with a view to the provision of special
help when necessary and assessment for the most appropriate
educational placement.
Clinics
The various services provided at the main clinics and subclinics
are as charted.
A new sub-clinic in Hacton Social Centre was started at
the beginning of the year, providing a Child Health Clinic which
is much more convenient for the mothers of the area.