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impression is gained that there is a swing away from the cigarette to the
pipe and cigars in the adult population. Whether this impression is
actual, it is difficult to ascertain statistically, but anyway one can only
continue to point out the dangers inherent in cigarette smoking and
watch the returns over the years.
Cervical Cytology
The incidence of cancer of the cervix is comparatively low but it is
a serious disease and yet is very amenable to treatment in its early stages,
so much so that the early diagnosis of this condition is now a matter
which is receiving more attention. This early diagnosis is made by the
microscopic examination of cervical smears. The actual taking of the
smears presents few difficulties but, on the other hand, the expert
examination of the smears is a highly technical task, complicated by the
fact that there is a shortage of suitably qualified cytologists to carry out
this work. However, the Regional Hospital Boards are pushing rapidly
forward with the training of cytologists and it is hoped that before very
long, it will be possible to institute services for the routine two to three
yearly examination of cervical smears from all women at risk, that is
between the ages of 30 and 40 years, especially those who have given
birth to several children.
Deaths from Accidents
Motor vehicle and other accidents caused the deaths of 51 residents
during 1964. In the classification of other accidents, a large proportion
occurred in the elderly—no doubt due to accidents in the home. Are
these accidents preventable? The answer is probably in the affirmative,
but it means a great deal of work in advising and persuading old people
to change their way of life in order to make their homes safer. One
can easily imagine the numerous hazards to life in the bed-sitting room
of the elderly person, piled high as it usually is with "treasures" collected
over the years and all of tremendous sentimental value. The tidying up
of these rooms, the removal or replacement of the worn bits of carpet,
the removal of the oil stove, the installation of a proper fire guard and
the general manoeuvres to get some clear living space, all take time and
are usually only achieved after paying many visits and using much gentle
persuasion.
Deaths from Suicide
22 people committed suicide during 1964, a drop of 6 as compared
Deaths from Infectious Diseases
There were 12 deaths from tuberculosis and 2 from influenza during
1964, with once more a nil return in the case of whooping cough,
measles and acute poliomyelitis.