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disease be prevented? This is a difficult problem, mainly because the
actual causation remains obscure. A combination of several factors such
as obesity, raised blood pressure, raised blood lipids, lack of exercise and
finally the aggravating effect of cigarette smoking may be at the root of
the trouble. If this be so, the control of these factors and therefore in
turn control of the actual disease itself could well be within the jurisdiction
of.the individual.
Deaths from Cancer
In 1969 the number of deaths from cancer was 272 male and 208
females. Deaths from lung cancer decreased by 16 to a total of 136 for
the year or a rate per 100,000 of 65.47. Ninety—three per cent of these
deaths occurred in the age groups 55—75 years and confirms the trend of
a decrease in the incidence in the younger groups. During the year full
use was made of new Anti—Smoking material issued by the Health
Education Council. This was given as wide a distribution as possible
throughout the Borough and it is hoped conveyed its message to the
public.
Deaths from Accidents
Motor vehicle and other accidents caused the deaths of 30 residents
during 1969. The equivalent figure for the previous year was 46. In the
latter category the percentage of incidents involving the elderly age group
was reduced. All members of staff involved in the domiciliary services
take every opportunity of advising on'house safety measures during the
course of their routine visits to houses.
Deaths from Suicide
Fourteen people committed suicide during 1969, a decrease of four
compared with the figure for 1968.
Deaths from Infectious Diseases
There were three deaths from pulmonary tuberculosis during 1969,
with once more a nil return in the case of whooping cough, measles and
acute poliomyelitis.