I am a previously fit and healthy woman in her early 60s, a non-smoker, who received a lung cancer diagnosis three weeks ago.
Lung cancer in non-smokers (LCNS) experienced a two-fold increase in the UK between 2008 and 2014, representing 15% of all lung cancer cases and resulting in approximately 6,000 deaths annually. Recent research conducted by UCL and the Francis Crick Institute has revealed a direct link between exposure to fine particulate pollution, particularly PM 2.5, and LCNS, along with the development of other types of cancer.
The ill-advised tax breaks granted to diesel vehicles that emit particulate matter in the early 2000s may be attributed to the substantial rise in LCNS in the UK. Moreover, the long-term health consequences of toxic air exposure on children remain unknown.
I was deeply disappointed to hear Chris Philp MP dismissing the positive impact of London’s ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) during a recent interview on BBC Radio 4’s “Any Questions.” Published data from Imperial College London clearly demonstrates a 26% decrease in harmful emissions within the expanded Ulez area, and a 41% reduction in PM 2.5 levels since 2017.
I am now faced with an uncertain future and exploring treatment options, while critical pollution reduction measures in London are being politicized, jeopardizing the health of the city’s population for the sake of election prospects. (Starmer urges Khan to ‘reflect’ on Ulez rules after Uxbridge defeat, 22 July)
Name and address supplied
Rishi Sunak attributes the narrow Tory byelection victory in Uxbridge and South Ruislip to campaigning on “a matter of substance.” This matter pertains to measures aimed at mitigating air pollution, which annually results in premature deaths of thousands of Londoners and negatively affects up to 500,000 individuals suffering from asthma in the capital. The Tory candidate acknowledged his focus on addressing the concerns of local residents regarding the potential impact of Ulez on their ability to use cars without accounting for the pollution they generate. Remarkably, 90% of cars driven in outer London would not be subject to Ulez payments.
Dr Martin Price
Poole, Dorset
Following the Conservative victory, albeit slim, in Uxbridge, there is growing talk of political parties wavering in their commitment to green policies. Keir Starmer argues that we should heed the voters, yet the fundamental issue lies in the lack of honesty from any party, except the Greens, regarding the consequences of climate change and biodiversity loss. Rather than prioritizing the economy, politicians must recognize that the environment is the foundation of any functioning economy. This truth needs to be communicated honestly to the electorate. It’s the environment that truly matters.
Prof Hugh Dunkerley
Brighton
Amid ongoing debates surrounding Ulez and concerns about NHS staff retention and pay, a potential solution that addresses both issues may involve reviewing the age requirement to qualify for a Freedom Pass. This pass grants free travel and could be extended to lower-paid NHS workers within inner and outer London, considering the challenges they face in affording housing near hospitals and the significant transportation expenses they incur. Supporting this group with Freedom Passes not only assists the lower-paid employees but also contributes to staff retention and reduces the number of cars on the road.
Sally Giles
London
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