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105. Would we pass Trump's fitness test?

105. Would we pass Trump's fitness test?

Author: Steve Brine and guests July 9, 2026 Duration: 43:30
Prevention is the New Cure
HealthHealth & FitnessFitnessGovernmentNewsPolitics

Is the NHS checking out of preventative care? In Episode 105 of Prevention is the New Cure, former health ministers Lord James Bethell and Steve Brine tackle the shifting landscape of public health, political incentives, and cultural habits across the UK and US.


From declining NHS health checks to the radical new "marathon a month" incentive scheme, they debate whether behavioural nudges actually work—or if they just reward the already healthy. They also dive into the NHS's new TikTok strategy to combat foreign misinformation, celebrate the massive hidden success of opt-out HIV testing in A&E, and cross the pond to look at RFK Jr.’s revival of the Presidential Fitness Test under the MAHA (Make America Healthy Again) agenda.


Plus, find out why Lord Bethell is trading politics for the DJ booth at Airfest this week and does Puritan Steve agree with more beer at football matches?

Email: podcast@stevebrine.com

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Prevention is the New Cure is a health and politics podcast hosted by former UK Health Ministers Steve Brine & James Bethell. Drawing on their experience inside government, they unpack how political decisions shape the NHS, public health, fitness, and everyday wellbeing. Each week, listeners can expect thoughtful conversations on prevention - from tackling chronic disease and obesity to mental health, social care, and the future of healthcare funding. With candid reflections, behind-the-scenes insight, and expert guests, the show explores what needs to change so that staying well becomes as important as treating illness. Whether you follow health policy, work in the system, or just care about living longer, healthier lives, this is your place to listen episodes that challenge, inform, and inspire.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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Prevention is the New Cure
Podcast Episodes
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Sarah is away so Steve is on his own for a shortened episode which considers two key pre-Budget considerations for the NHS and welcomes a special guest to talk long-term conditions and the benefits of physical exercise.D…

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