94. Vaccines... and underpants

94. Vaccines... and underpants

Author: Steve Brine & James Bethell April 23, 2026 Duration: 55:00
Prevention is the New Cure
HealthHealth & FitnessFitnessGovernmentNewsPolitics

Former Health Ministers Steve Brine and James Bethell return for a deep dive into the intersection of health and politics.

This week, they tackle the "Golden Child" of the pandemic, the vaccine rollout, and ask a piercing question: Why can the UK system innovate in a crisis but remain "analogue" for chronic disease?


In this episode:

  • The Allergy Boom: Lord Bethell shares his personal battle with hay fever and discusses the launch of the new UK Allergy Strategy.
  • Mandelson & Geopolitics: A frank discussion on Lord Mandelson’s appointment, Chinese influence in UK Life Sciences, and the "distractions" slowing down government.
  • The Vaccine Wrap: Analysis of the COVID Inquiry’s praise for the rollout, the decline in childhood MMR uptake, and the breakthrough RSV jab for pregnant women.
  • RFK Jr & MAGA Health: James previews his upcoming trip to the US to investigate the "Make America Healthy Again" movement.
  • The NHS Model Debate: Seb Rees from the IPPR joins the show to discuss whether switching to a European-style insurance system would actually fix the NHS.

Plus, did School PE ruin exercise for a generation?


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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: 96

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