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SEX IN INDUSTRY.
ment among females is more powerful and efficient in the production of disease of various kinds in that sex than almost all other causes combined.”
To these expressions of physicians, presumably as safe a criterion of the real results produced by the occupation as can be obtained, Dr. Nichols has added numerous varying experiences of the workwomen themselves, which, though not as harmonious or positive in their findings, are sufficiently so to make it certain that a grave degree of peculiar disturbance is recognized by them. The “ conclusions ” given by Dr. Nichols are: —
1 ‘ That the illnesses which most frequently prevail among professional operatives (as distinguished from home operatives) making use of the treadle (foot- power) are, —
“ (a) Indigestion, attributable to the unhealthy conditions in which they pursue thtjir occupation, particularly the impure atmosphere of the workrooms, the sedentary employment, and want of open-air exercise.
“(ft) Muscular pains, affecting the lower limbs and trunk, produced by the long-continued, frequent use of the muscles.