Capsules

P: Seventy thousand lives were saved last year by early detection of cancer, the American Cancer Society estimated. If every case had been detected early and treated by the best known methods, 140,000 might have been saved. Launching it's 1953 drive for $18 million, the society said that with present knowledge, cancer-cure rates can be increased thus: lung, 5% to 50%; rectum, 15% to 75%; mouth, 40% to 65%; skin, 85% to 95%; female reproductive system, from 30% to 80%; breast, 35% to 70%.

P: The University of Pittsburgh's Dr. Jonas E. Salk, of polio-vaccine fame, reported in the A.M.A. Journal that the technique of preparing killed virus in a mineral-oil suspension (instead of water) works well in influenza vaccines also. His research team, which includes Army medics, said the oil vaccine gives protection against flu for two years (twice as long as the water form) or even longer, and against a larger number of flu-virus strains.

P: Seeking a long-term cure for its acute doctor shortage (seven counties have none at all), Georgia joined the ranks of states offering substantial aid to medical students. Up to 14 students may now borrow up to $1,500 apiece from the state in each school year. For every year they practice in a rural area or small town (pop. 5,000 or less), Georgia will lop $1,000 off their loan.

P: "Is there any foundation for belief in the spontaneous combustion of chronic alcoholics?" a correspondent asked the British Medical Journal. No, said the editor, Charles Dickens' case (Mr. Krook in Bleak House) notwithstanding. "There is no scientific foundation for the theory that hell fire is anticipated ... in chronic alcoholics."

P: To make electric-shock treatment quicker and safer, the University of Texas' Dr. Neville Murray recommended giving the patients succinylcholine (instead of curare) to relax their muscles, and no barbiturates. The whole job can be done in 80 seconds, he reported; patients need little restraint (one attendant is ample) and do not hurt themselves. Most can soon walk back to their rooms.

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