Citation

Moore HH. Am. J. Sociol. 1929; 34(6): 1064-1071.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1929, University of Chicago Press)

DOI

10.1086/214884

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The people became, in 1928, more conscious of "cultural lag" in the field of medicine and public health. Mortality and morbidity statistic.-The general death rate was higher than for the preceding year, owing partially perhaps to two influenza epidemics. There were decreases in the death-rate due to various diseases of public health importance, according to the experiences of the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, and increases in the rates among certain degenerative diseases. Public health measures.-Eighty-seven new county health departments, established as a result of flood work, were maintained without loss during 1928. Three new enterprises were launched or furthered: the American Foundation for Mental Hygiene, a Committee for Research on Syphilis, and the Gorgas Memorial Laboratory in Panama. Private practice.-The number of physicians, nurses, and dentists still appeared to be increasing. Hospitals and clinics.-The Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center was opened. The number of hospitals continued to increase, and there was a tendency for certain kinds of clinics to associate themselves with hospitals. Legal measures.-While the legislatures of most states did not hold sessions in 1928, several legal decisions of importance were rendered. Biological research.-Two scientists, whose work has been responsible for notable progress in disease control, succumbed to disease. Several discoveries of importance were made. Research in medical sociology and economics.-Four commissions or committees issued reports of significance.