I was interested to read the letter from Dr S Prokop in your September 28 edition (Car fumes are causing illness) about fumes and pollution causing asthma.

I was (wrongly) diagnosed with asthma for some 18 months, but eventually the respiratory department at St Helier Hospital found I had permanent damage to both lungs and airways, caused by bronchitis and pollution.

I now manage the condition, but am firmly convinced that living in this area has caused it.

It is noticeable that outside paintwork and windows get filthy within a couple of days, as do parked cars. Obviously we are breathing in this dirt, and over time it must cause damage. My solution is a planned move away from this area to the sea, where I am reliably told my condition will improve.

Drastic, but the only long-term solution I can really try.

SUE LACY Primrose Close Hackbridge