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lethal affect on the Tubercle bacillus and which arrest the disease
process. Whereas, formerly, there were lengthy waiting lists for admission
to sanatoria and chest hospitals, these institutions are now being used
for other purposes e.g. for cases of chronic Bronchitis and heart disease.
The main hazards of life today are coronary thrombosis, lung cancer
and mental illness. All of these show an increase and, in order to
determine the causative factors further research is needed. The increasing
number of old people in the community puts a strain on the Health Services.
Turning to environmental health, slum clearance and the provision of
clean air have made much progress. It can be said without fear of contradiction
that we in Wanstead and Woodford have been pioneers in slum
clearance. Energetic steps were taken to establish clearance areas and
on these sites modern dwellings have now been erected. Similarly as
regards clean air, a programme was approved consisting of eight zones
and by October 1965 roughly three quarters of the Borough will be smokeless.
All this has entailed considerable opposition from certain quarters and
many hours of hard work have been expended.
In conclusion I would say how much I have enjoyed ray work as Medical
Officer of Health. It has been stimulating and varied. I have always
had co-operation and help from Members of the Council and to them I extend
my gratitude.
My thanks are due to officers of the department both technical and
clerical for their support.
I have the Honour to be,
Mr. Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
FREDERICK G. BROWN, T.D., M.B.,
B.Ch., D.P.H.
Medical Officer of Health.
8th March, 1965-
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