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ANNUAL REPORT
of the
MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH
FOR THE YEAR 1956.
To the Mayor, Aldermen and Councillors of the
Borough of Hendon.
Mr, Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I have the honour to submit my Amual Report for the year 1956.
The vital statistics for the year show a satisfactory state of affairs. There
has been an estimated slight decrease in the total population
The infant mortality rate, which has been accepted as a measure of the standard
of public health is at the low figure of 18 per 1 000 live births.
I am pleased to report too that no maternal death occurred for the first year
since 1932 when Hendon received its Charter.
Our environment will improve now that new legislation has been introduced with
the Food Hygiene Regulations in January and the Clean Air Act in December, and the
Council has taken prompt action on both these useful measures.
During the year 13 cases of poliomyelitis were notified, a considerable decrease
on the record total notified in 1955. I am glad to report that prophylactic inoculation
against this disease was introduced.
Carcinoma of the lung and bronchus is now an important cause of death in those
under sixty years of age.
In the report I have included the observations of the Chairman of the Borough
of Hendon Old People's Welfare Committee and of the Honorary Secretary of the now
separate Hendon Old People's Housing Society.
I would like to thank the Members of the Council for their support and encouragement
and also the members of the staff for their loyal and conscientious service
during the year.
I have the honour to be,
Mr Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
J. L, PATTON.
Medical Officer of Health.
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