§ 44. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Health what recent reports he has received in respect of the increase in rheumatism, arthritis, and similar complaints; and to what extent new treatments of this class of disease are ensuring definite alleviation or cure.
§ Mr. PowellI have received no evidence of increase in these diseases, though the rising average age of the 22 population might justify a presumption. I am informed that no outstanding new treatment has become available during the last few years.
§ Mr. SorensenIs not the Minister aware that in some parts of the country at least rheumatism and similar diseases seem to be on the increase and that certain methods have been applied which seem to be effective in some areas but not in others? Could not the right hon. Gentleman make available to all doctors and hospitals information about these methods of treatment which seem to be effective, so that they shall know of them even if they do not apply them?
§ Mr. PowellI am not clear to which areas or methods the hon. Gentleman is referring, but if he will communicate with me I will look into the matter.