Editorial.
Fiftieth birthday celebrations are always difficult affairs. It is never quite clear whether to acknowledge the start of the 'youth of old age' or to make ever-stronger protestations of continuing youthfulness. The 50th anniversary of the founding of the NHS has been transformed into a birthday celebration and this shift of emphasis should not go unnoticed. An anniversary celebration is a more reflective event concentrating on achievements. The NHS birthday events have a much more prospective tone. While this is politically astute, it should not obscure the need for reflection.