Duodenal ulcer, urban stress and the concept of 'marginal man'

The increasing incidence of duodenal ulcer among Blacks, and the incidence at Ga-Rankuwa Hospital, Pretoria, are discussed. The role of urbanization and urban stress is considered, and the concept of 'marginal man' in relation to urban stress is outlined. A plea is made for the utilization of this concept in the study of the problem.