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
West Ham 1936
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for West Ham]
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List of defects found:—
| Treatment | Observation | |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Diseases | 2 | — |
| Defective Vision | 14 | 2 |
| Defective Hearing | 1 | — |
| Chronic Tonsillitis | 1 | 1 |
| Chronic Tonsillitis and Adenoids | 1 | - |
| Other Conditions, Nose and Throat | 11 | - |
| Heart Disease (organic) | — | 3 |
| Anaemia | 3 | - |
| Other Defects | 1 | - |
At re-inspection later in the year it was found that treatment
had been obtained where advised in the majority of cases, with
the following results:—
Skin Diseases: Both improving.
Defective Vision: Eleven obtained glasses through Committee's
Scheme; 3 obtained glasses privately; 2 cases under
observation—treatment not necessary.
Defective Hearing: Attended hospital and still in attendance,
but not improving.
Chronic Tonsillitis: Treatment not obtained and again advised.
Chronic Tonsillitis and Adenoids: Operation satisfactory.
Other Conditions Nose and Throat: Four attended Hospital—
cured; 2 attended privately—cured; 4 followed advice
given at inspection, and were improving.
Anaemia: All 3 cases had obtained treatment, and were satisfactory.
Other Defects: Treatment not obtained.
There are 3 cases of organic heart disease in the school; all
are prohibited from taking part in gymnastics and games, but
are capable of enjoying the full school curriculum otherwise.
The nutrition of the pupils is of a high standard, as will be seen from the following record:—
| Number | Percentage | |
|---|---|---|
| Excellent | 24 | 12 |
| Normal | 166 | 84 |
| Slightly Subnormal | 9 | 4 |
Several of those in the slightly subnormal group were advised
to have milk at school, and no doubt the benefit of this will be
seen at the next inspection.
A list of 18 girls with slight deformities, such as flat feet, etc.,
was left with the Drill Mistress, who undertakes the remedial
exercises with very commendable results.
Thanks are due to the Principal, Dr. Florence Barnett, for
her efficient co-operation during the inspection.
202