Readers' letters - August 18

In the last 50 years, there have been numerous world meetings to discuss the reasons for climate change and the running out of the planet’s resources. Yet these have taken place without ever identifying the real reason we are in the state we are, namely the population explosion.

If the planet’s population was three billion and not seven billion, all the current problems would not exist.

And yet we are making the problem worse by pouring money into scientific research to improve health and increase life expectancy, when we should be finding ways to control the world’s population.

The problems we have now will pale into insignificance when, in the remainder of this century, the globe’s population hits 10 billion.

Address supplied

Be aware of cancer signs

I’m aware of the devastating impact a diagnosis of gynaecological cancer can have, not just on the woman involved, but also her partner, her family and friends.

That’s why I’d like to make more people aware of the signs and symptoms of gynaecological cancer, particularly during September which will be Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month.

More than 21,000 women in the UK are diagnosed each year with a gynaecological cancer, which equates to 58 diagnoses each day. Yet research by the leading women’s gynaecological cancer charity, The Eve Appeal, has revealed low knowledge among women of the disease.

It’s also vital for men to be more aware. So I’m backing The Eve Appeal’s call for men to support the women in their lives to get to know their bodies better – to be more aware of the signs to look out for – it may just save their lives. So please, help create a future where fewer women develop, and more women survive, gynaecological cancers. Find out more at www.eveappeal.org.uk.

Dr Pixie McKenna

The Eve Appeal

Champs should be top team

Re: ‘Winning the league leaders’ shield the biggest prize? Really?’ Talking Rugby League (WP August 17). The rules are set in place before the season starts and the biggest prize is awarded at Old Trafford. Every coach, player and fan knows this.

I agree the champions should be the team which tops the table and the Grand Final used as a secondary competition as it used to be, but Sky and the rugby league see pound signs, taking it to the final game.

Having been a winning and losing fan, it is a great event to showcase the game but morally it feels wrong to be crowned Champions.

Ian Griffiths

via WP Facebook

Special Olympics very special

The Special Olympics were very special. We attended several of the free events, which was great timing for the school holidays. It was brilliant seeing all these people having a go. We all sat cheering them on, lumps in the throat. Pity it didn’t get a more telly coverage. Channel 4 are usually on the money, but not this time. Well done all round, you are all heroes.

Jayne Grayson via email