Synopsis of the final report of the Royal Commission on Venereal Diseases / by Douglas White.

  • White, Douglas
Date:
1916
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Synopsis of the final report of the Royal Commission on Venereal Diseases / by Douglas White. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    authorities and the managers of existing hospitals. For them the facts and opinions embodied in this Synopsis should prove of special value. They will be able to realize the many forms in which venereal disease manifests itself, and the terrible results of congenital infection in causing sterility, still-births, infant mortality, and infirmities which require institutional treatment at great expense to the community. They can judge how far these great evils can be prevented by the application of early and efficient remedies which medical science has placed at our disposal. The Commissioners explained the reasons which at present stand in the way of any accurate estimate of the prevalence of venereal disease. It is only by following up many different clues that some idea can be formed of the total number of persons who have become infected either directly: or by inheritance. While no absolute figures can be obtained, it is certain that the total is far larger than has ever been recognised, and that the indirect effects can be traced in directions hitherto unsuspected. The diffusion of knowledge will have the effect of opening up new fields of investigation, which may reveal secrets now hid and throw fresh light on matters which vitally affect the future welfare of the nation. I earnestly commend Dr. White’s able compilation to all who are anxious to co-operate in freeing our race from a curse that threatens its numbers and its vigour in days when both will be sorely needed to enable us to meet the difficult and strenuous years which the future holds in store. SYDENHAM OF COMBE. 5th August, 1916.