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
Walthamstow 1952
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Walthamstow]
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has taken place in many parts of the world since 1939. Combined
statistics from 21 countries (including the United Kingdom)
with a total population of 404 million in 1950, show that
the death rate has been roughly halved in the past fifteen years.
The chief causes are thought to be the energetic mass action
directed towards the early detection of the disease by radiography
and its prevention by B.C.G. vaccination and the control
of milk; improved medical facilities and progress in treatment
have also contributed to the success. The decline in mortality
has been greatest in children and adolescents. The male
mortality-rate has always been higher than the female, and
the difference between the two is becoming greater because, it
is suggested, recent social progress and improvements in
hygiene have had more effect on women's living conditions."
Non-Notification.
Analysis of the position in Walthamstow in regard to nonnotification since 1945 reveals the following position:—
| Year | Total T.B. Deaths | Non-notified Deaths | Total | Percentage of Non-notified to Total T.B. Deaths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pulmonary | Non-Pulmonary | ||||
| 1945 | 67 | 14 | 3 | 17 | 25.3 |
| 1946 | 58 | 9 | 2 | 11 | 18.9 |
| 1947 | 58 | 11 | 1 | 12 | 20.6 |
| 1948 | 64 | 7 | - | 7 | 10.9 |
| 1949 | 52 | 5 | 5 | 10 | 19.2 |
| 1950 | 33 | 5 | - | 5 | 15.1 |
| 1951 | 37 | 3 | 2 | 5 | 13.5 |
| 1952 | 22 | 3 | - | 3 | 13.6 |
Three deaths registered in 1952 from tuberculosis had not
previously been notified. Details are given below:—
Case(l)—Male aged 71 years, admitted to a hospital in
another area 12.1.52 with a provisional diagnosis of
pneumonia. Died 21.1.52, and final diagnosis only
possible at Post Mortem.
Case (2)—Female aged 44 years, admitted to hospital with
pleural effusion 15.11.52. Sudden collapse and
death 17.11.52. Had suffered from "influenza" in
July, 1952. This was followed by pain in the chest
and shortness of breath since October, 1952. There
was no cough or bleeding, but gradual loss of weight
and progressive worsening. Diagnosis not possible
without Post Mortem.