London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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Barnes 1958

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Barnes]

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11
demand, but later the import of American and Canadian vaccine recommenced,
and it was possible to vaccinate nearly all those registered
during the summer months.
In September the scheme was extended to include young people
born in the years 1933-1942, and to give third or boosting doses to
all those vaccinated since the beginning of the scheme.
The scheme is operated by the County Council under the
direction of the Divisional Medical Officer.
Tuberculosis — B.C.G. vaccination is offered to every child between
the age of 13 and 14. The scheme is carried out by the County
Council.
Lung Cancer
The incidence of cancer of the lung is increasing rapidly. It is
now the most common form of cancer mortality, being responsible for
approximately 20,000 deaths a year, predominantly in men in the
prime of life.
In this area the rate is higher than in England and Wales, but
the number of deaths this year is exactly the same as last year. Once
again there is an increase in the number of women dying from the
condition.
There is now the strongest evidence to show that the more
cigarettes are smoked the more liable one is to develop cancer of the
lung, and it has been shown that the incidence is much reduced in
those who have previously smoked and given it up.
It is discouraging to note that in spite of the health education
carried out in schools, Youth Clubs and young people's organizations,
so many young people continue to take up the habit.