The Influence of Industry on Public Health

Recognized specific risks of industry considered.Under Section 73, Factory and Workshop Act, certain diseases contracted in a factory or workshop are notifiable by medical practitioners to the Chief Inspector of Factories.Lead poisoning, epitheliomatous and chrome ulceration and anthrax—considered in detail.Effects of inhalation of dust in the causation of silicosis and asbestosis. Relation of these diseases to tuberculosis. Reason to believe that a large number of dusts of different characters will create pathological changes in the lung.Other diseases included in the Schedule under the Workmen''s Compensation Act, e.g., nystagmus and dermatitis.Common risks, i.e., shared by the general non-industrial population, incurred by workers.Direct supervision of workers in industry.The sphere and work of a works medical officer. The effects of National Health Insurance on such service. Co-operation between panel and works doctors. Far-reaching effects of the services rendered by works medical officers.Periodic medical inspection under regulations for dangerous trades. Advice given on all medical matters.The charge that industry raises the cancer incidence considered. Means of controlling early recognition and treatment include some non-industrial cases of cancer.Anthrax in industry led to the introduction into the country of Sclavo''s serum. Disinfection of wool protects the consumer.First-aid training in factories gives protection in the home.It is suggested that well-organized industry is a centre radiating the principles of preventive medicine.