View report page

101
in the area into the prevention of tuberculosis by B.C.G. vaccination.
In 1951 the investigation had been concerned with accepting
"school leaver" volunteers into the scheme. In 1952 the important
task of following up the inoculated and the control groups
was commenced. It can easily be appreciated that the success
of the trial depends on the completeness of the follow-up, for
without being able to assess the results of B.C.G. vaccination by
comparing a large inoculated group with a control group no
estimate of the value of the vaccine can be obtained.
The follow-up is carried out in three ways:-
1. An annual X-ray and skin test:- Sessions are held at
a convenient centre between 4.30 p.m. and 8 p.m. to
enable young people who are at work to attend with the
minimum of disruption to their employers. The employers
themselves are encouraged, by means of letters sent out
by the Youth Employment Officer, to release any of
their employees who are included in the trials. Publicity
is also given in the press and by slides at local
cinemas.
2. Visits by Health Visitors:- Prior to the annual X-ray
the health visitors visit the volunteers to complete
questionnaires concerning their state of health. Particular
regard is paid to illnesses of more than two days
duration and to any visits to hospitals or clinics.
The opportunity is also taken to remind them of the
importance of attending for annual X-ray.
3. Co-operation with Chest Clinics:- The Chest Physicians
supply information to the Medical Research Council with
regard to children in the age groups covered by the
investigation who are known to the Chest Clinics.
In 1952 the Lordship Lane Medical Centre was used for the
follow-up and out of 213 children who left school at the end of
the 1951 summer term, 172 returned for X ray. This represents
a figure of 81% and in the words of Dr. Pollock who is in charge
of the trials on behalf of the Medical Research Council "is a
very good figure and we have every reason to be pleased with the
success achieved".