The California morbidity survey; a progress report

In May of 1954 the California State Department of Public Health began a one-year household sample survey covering the health status of the population of California. Preliminary results from the survey indicate that chronic conditions cause approximately three-quarters of the disability in the California population, while acute conditions are responsible for the remainder. Acute upper respiratory tract disorders account for about half of the total disability from acute conditions. In the older population group, there is a greater amount of disability outside than within metropolitan areas. No significant differences in disability status appear between recent migrants to California and longer term residents. Forthcoming results from the survey, answering more detailed questions, will provide information needed by a number of private and state agencies.