The Physical Health of Aboriginal Adults in Bourke, New South Wales

A health survey of Aboriginal adults in Bourke, New South Wales, showed that, in 1971, 70% had a history of recent discomfort from medical or dental illness and that 79% were in need of medical attention. Eye disease was found in 31%, ear disease in 12%, respiratory disease in 20% and skin disease in 30% of adults. Fifteen per cent of adults were hypertensive, 14% had iron–deficiency anaemia, 19% had urinary infection and 5% had clinical diabetes.