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The explanation is simple and satisfactory ; nearly all
the cases of minor ailments are found by special inspections
and referred for treatment at the Clinic or elsewhere
immediately, instead of having to wait for routine inspection
or, what is more likely, not being properly treated at all.
(c) Tonsils and Adenoids.
Some enlargement of the tonsils was found in approximately
30% of the children under 8 years and 24% of the
seniors, or 27% of all seen at routine inspection. As is
well known, a certain amount of tonsillar enlargement is
compatible with perfect health. Ninety-one children were
found to require operations for enlargement of the tonsils,
with or without adenoids, and in eleven cases of adenoids
only, operation was indicated, in all one hundred and two
being referred for operation.
The theory that heart disease or defect may be due to
septic infection from unhealthy tonsils is one that has
received considerable attention. The figures obtained from
the results of medical inspection during the past year may
be given, although they do not tend to support or rebut
the contention. Among 769 entrants, 14 had heart defects
as indicated by definite murmurs, but in only three of these
14 children was the heart defect associated with enlarged
tonsils. Among 713 seniors examined, 16 had heart defects,
but in only one of these children were enlarged tonsils
present. In all, out of the 30 children found to have heart
murmurs, four were found to have enlarged tonsils.
(c) Tuberculosis.
One definite case of pulmonary tuberculosis was discovered
during the year, and three cases of non-pulmonary
tuberculosis. Several cases of suspected tubercle of the
lungs were kept under observation and referred if necessary
to the Tuberculosis Medical Officer for opinion.