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that the majority had passed middle life and some were of really
advanced age.
It cannot be too strongly emphasized, that if deaths from this
cause are to be reduced and the advantages of modern technique, both
in diagnosis and treatment, are to be used to the full, advice must be
sought in the very early stages of the disease. Delay is fatal, the
earliest symptoms should be noted and the family physician consulted
at once; only where this is done can a hopeful outlook be assured.
No discovery of outstanding importance in diagnosis or treatment
was made in 1938, but a very steady advance continues to be made in
the application of those methods which have shown themselves of
value in recent years.
The constant and persevering research and collaboration of all
workers in this field cannot help but result, in time, in the control of
the ravages of this dread disease. If, however, the efforts of the
research workers are to meet with the success they deserve, the active
co-operation of the general public in placing themselves in the hands
of the doctor in time is of the utmost importance.
The Medical Officer of Health has undertaken the duties of local
Medical Secretary to the British Empire Cancer Campaign, through
which speakers can be secured to address meetings.
VIOLENCE.
Four deaths (males) were recorded from Suicide. There were 11
deaths from other forms of violence, of these 6 were males and 5
females.
The cause of death in the 4 cases of Suicide was as follows:—
Strangulation by hanging 2
Asphyxia due to Carbon Monoxide (Coal Gas)
Poisoning 1
Cut throat wounds of the neck 1
One death of a Wallington resident due to a road accident occurring
within the Borough took place in 1938. Two deaths of Wallington
residents occurred in roads outside the Borough.
Whilst appreciating that the problem of road accidents is one of
national importance, as a Borough we must make every effort to ensure
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