An Inaugural Dissertation on Certain Endemic Diseases of Rio de Janeiro: viz. Erysipelas and Hydrocele

How far traditionary information alone is worthy of credit in such a case, we shall not determine. No accurate medical information is to be obtained on the origin of these diseases. Although the first appearance of these endemics is by no means accounted for, their subsequent prevalence and rapid spread, are attributed to the luxurious and debauched life of the inhabitants; deficient ventilation, want of personal and domestic cleanliness, improper diet, indolence, &c. Stc. Dr. Pareira justly observes, that although man possesses, above all other animals, the power of adaptation to diversity of climate, yet this diversity should never, by the medical philosopher, be overlooked ; as it frequently stamps the character, both of the bodily and mental faculties, and likewise determines the nature of the diseases of different regions.