Venereal Diseases in New Zealand (1922) Report of the Special Committee of the Board of Health appointed by the Hon. Minister of Health

"Venereal Diseases in New Zealand" is an early 20th-century study that examines the detrimental impact of venereal diseases on New Zealand's population. The report, compiled by a Board of Health committee, arose from public health concerns and was created to provide guidelines based on available data. It examines the origins of these illnesses, their broad effects on society, past laws relating to the diseases, and suggestions for education and prevention measures. The report begins by detailing the formation of the committee and its goal of addressing public health issues related to venereal diseases in response to rising public concerns in New Zealand. It also describes the members of the committee and how they did their research, including talking to experts and analyzing health statistics. The importance of education and appropriate medical care is reinforced in the first parts, which also emphasizes how little people know about these diseases, while the necessity for legislative and ethical changes is emphasized to halt the spread of venereal diseases.