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95. Jonathan Ashworth on his stroke - and lego

95. Jonathan Ashworth on his stroke - and lego

Author: Steve Brine and guests April 30, 2026 Duration: 43:00
Prevention is the New Cure
HealthHealth & FitnessFitnessGovernmentNewsPolitics

Former Health Ministers Steve Brine and James Bethell return with a thought-provoking episode - featuring former Shadow Health Secretary Jonathan Ashworth on his shock stroke at 47, and the unexpected role of Lego in his recovery.


This week, they ask a hard question: If someone who understands the system can miss the warning signs, how are the public meant to spot them?


In this episode:

  • Jonathan Ashworth on his Stroke: A candid account of the moment everything changed - and what it reveals about “silent” risk.
  • Recovery, Lego & Neuroplasticity: How rebuilding with Lego, learning piano, and even reciting Shakespeare are helping retrain the brain after stroke.
  • Prevention vs Reality: From missed health checks to lifestyle risks, why do individuals - and governments - struggle to act before it’s too late?
  • The Biobank Breach: A major data security scare raises urgent questions about trust in the UK’s most valuable health research resource.
  • Britain’s Health Decline: New data shows we’re falling behind on healthy life expectancy - posing not just a health crisis, but an economic one.
  • The Culture Problem: From alcohol to everyday habits, are we too comfortable with the behaviours making us ill?


Plus, a “brain-boosting beer” claim under the microscope—science or spin?


Prevention may be the cure—but only if we take it seriously.



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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more

Email: podcast@stevebrine.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


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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Steve & James return with episode 82 of the health and politics podcast, Prevention is the new cure.This week, to mark Stroke Prevention Day on Thursday, the guys talk to Juliet Bouverie from the Stroke Association about…
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