By JOE ROSSITER, REPORTER

Published: 00:09 BST, 23 June 2026 | Updated: 00:09 BST, 23 June 2026

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A first of its kind therapy that can delay the onset of type 1 diabetes for up to three years will be made available on the NHS in a ‘landmark’ moment.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has approved teplizumab, with Diabetes UK saying it ‘marks the start of a new age of treatment’.

Teplizumab – sold as Tzield and made by Sanofi – has been approved for children aged eight and above as well as adults who have the condition in its early stage before symptoms appear.

Some 400,000 people in the UK have type 1 diabetes – a chronic condition where the immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

Teplizumab trains the immune system to stop attacking these cells.

Evidence shows the drug, given as a one-off course, can delay the onset of the disease, meaning adults can live a fuller life and children have longer before having to aggressively manage their diabetes.

Nice estimates 1,100 people may be eligible for teplizumab in the first year, dropping to 820 in the coming years.

Dr Elizabeth Robertson, at the Diabetes UK charity, said: ‘Today’s landmark approval of teplizumab marks the start of a new age of treatment. For the first time in 100 years, we are moving beyond insulin with a medicine that targets the root cause of the condition.

A new therapy which delays type 1 diabetes for up to three years has been approved by the NHS. Pictured: A woman with diabetes injects herself with insulin

Teplizumab, given through a drip into a vein, has approved for children aged eight and above and adults who have the condition in its early stage before symptoms appear (file pic)

‘This is an extraordinary moment for celebration… and represents a shift towards a future where type 1 diabetes can be prevented altogether.’

Dr Robertson added: ‘Teplizumab offers those in the early stages of type 1 diabetes extra years free of the relentless demands of managing the condition with insulin. Detecting type 1 early is key to unlocking these benefits, and our focus now is ensuring fair access for everyone who is eligible.’

There are two UK studies looking at screening for type 1 diabetes – identifying those with the disease early means they could receive teplizumab.

The Early Surveillance for Autoimmune Diabetes study, funded by Diabetes UK and Breakthrough T1D, focuses on children aged two to 17, while the T1DRA study is screening adults between 18 and 70.

Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at Nice, said: ‘This is a genuinely exciting recommendation. Evidence shows teplizumab can delay symptomatic diabetes by an average of nearly three years.’

And Karen Addington, of Breakthrough T1D, described it as an ‘incredible moment’.

Teplizumab is given through a drip into a vein once a day for 14 days in a row.

Each infusion takes around 30 minutes, with the dose increased over the first few days.

With summer upon us it’s time to stock up on sunscreen once more.

Overwhelming evidence shows that high sun protection factor (SPF) is the single best defence against skin cancers and premature skin ageing – yet half of all Britons report getting sunburnt at least once a year, according to the latest figures from UK skin cancer charity Melanoma Focus.

And, despite our increasingly warm weather, a third of us don’t use sunscreen at all in the UK during the summer months, the survey found.

Meanwhile, rates of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, have increased by a third in the past decade – and are now at an all-time high, according to a new Cancer Research UK report. Non-melanoma skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are also rising sharply – up by more than 40 per cent.

But with the vast array of sunscreens that are available, which should you choose?

‘A high-quality sunscreen should offer broad-spectrum protection, shielding against both UVA and UVB sun rays,’ says Dr Susan Mayou, a consultant dermatologist at the Cadogan Clinic in London. ‘UVB is responsible for sunburn while UVA penetrates deeper, driving premature ageing – both contribute to skin cancer risk.’

She advises choosing a product with a four or five-star UVA rating and an SPF (a measure of UVB protection) of 50.

She adds: ‘Don’t skimp on the application – adults should use around a teaspoon for the face and neck and a shot glass full for the torso – and another for the limbs. Sunscreen should be applied 15-20 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every two hours, or after swimming.’

We asked Dr Mayou to assess some of the newest sunscreens on the market; we then rated them.

Very high protection

Heliocare 360° MD AK Fluid SPF100, £32.99 for 50ml, hollandandbarrett.com

CLAIM: ‘Very high-level protection to help prevent actinic keratosis and non-melanoma skin cancer. Contains Fernblock for powerful antioxidant skin protection.’

EXPERT VERDICT: SPF100 means in controlled tests, people spend 100 times longer in the sun without burning after application than they would with no sun protection.

This promises to prevent actinic keratosis – pink, scaly sun-damaged patches that can develop into squamous cell carcinoma (the second most common skin cancer) if left untreated. But no topical sunscreen can fully prevent it; consistent protection – including covering up in direct sunlight – is key.

There’s some evidence Fernblock (extracted from a tropical fern) can be an effective antioxidant, neutralising free radicals (molecules generated by UV damage that break down collagen and cause skin inflammation) but it isn’t comparable to sunscreen.

This could be useful for high-risk individuals, such as those with a history of skin cancer, pre-cancerous growths or if sensitive to sunlight – but it’s expensive and SPF50 is adequate. 7/10

Anti-ageing

African Extracts Advantage Day Cream SPF15, £14.50 for 50ml, africanextracts.co.uk

CLAIM: ‘Rich in antioxidant rooibos extract for anti-ageing benefits. SPF15 for essential protection against harmful UV rays.’

EXPERT VERDICT: Rooibos, a South African plant, may protect against oxidative stress (damage to skin cells) caused by exposure to UV sunlight. A study last month by the University of Malaga in Spain found it could enhance traditional sunscreens’ ‘absorption capacity, increasing their antioxidant levels, and providing longer-lasting protection against the risks of radiation’.

But there’s limited evidence it significantly enhances protection in a finished product. More importantly, at just SPF15 this is lower than the NHS recommended minimum of SPF30. This is more a nice daily moisturiser than an adequate UV protector. 3/10

Long-lasting formula

Riemann P20 Original Sun Protection Spray SPF50, £19.99 for 100ml, boots.com

CLAIM: ‘Sweat and water-resistant with triple protection technology that provides up to ten hours of protection. Allergy certified.’

EXPERT VERDICT: This is a decent, durable formula which could be particularly useful for children. But the idea of a once-daily sunscreen (or lasting ten hours) should be approached with caution.

Even very water-resistant formulas can degrade with sweating, swimming or towel drying. Relying on a product claiming to be long-lasting may lead to gaps in protection and a false sense of security. Allergy certified means it avoids known allergens – but may still cause a reaction in sensitive individuals. 7/10

Tan-boosting

Ultrasun Body Tan Activator SPF50, £25.60 for 200ml, boots.com

CLAIM: ‘Encourages a faster, deeper natural tan with new addition Neuroglow to boost melanin production.’

EXPERT VERDICT: A tan is a sign of skin damage and the only safe tan is a fake tan. This product actively encourages tanning, which for me is at odds with skin health. In any case, the SPF50 will actually reduce UV penetration, so tanning will be slower and less intense. Neuroglow – an extract of the Japanese indigo plant – may have laboratory evidence suggesting it influences melanin production, but clinical evidence is limited. 3/10

Acne-prone skin

SVR Sebiaclear Cream SPF50+ for acne prone skin, £20.50 for 40ml, uk.svr.com

CLAIM: ‘A formula combining acne-targeting skincare with sun protection. Niacinamide and salicylic acid to reduce blemishes.’

EXPERT VERDICT: Many people with acne avoid sunscreen due to concerns about clogged pores.

This is non-comedogenic (meaning it doesn’t block pores) and lightweight which can minimise this risk. Also some acne treatments – such as benzoyl peroxide and retinoids – make the skin more sun-sensitive, so daily sun protection is essential.

There’s good evidence niacinamide can reduce skin inflammation, regulate oil and improve skin barrier function to reduce dryness and sensitivity. Salicylic acid is also shown to unclog pores and reduce breakouts. 9/10

Insect protection

Incognito Mineral Sunblock and Insect Repellent SPF30, £27.99 for 100ml, lessmosquito.com

CLAIM: ‘Clinically proven to give 100 per cent protection against mosquito bites with PMD and mineral SPF30 sun protection.’

EXPERT VERDICT: This is a mineral sunscreen, meaning it contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which reflect the sun’s UV rays away – rather than absorbing them, as chemical sunscreens do.

Those with sensitive skin may prefer this, but they can leave a white cast on skin.

PMD (derived from the lemon eucalyptus tree) is one of the more effective plant-based insect repellents. My issue with any combined product is there’s a risk that neither function is optimised compared to using separate, dedicated products. And no repellent can guarantee ‘100 per cent protection’. 6/10

Sun-sensitive skin

Piz Buin Allergy Sun Sensitive Skin Lotion SPF30, £16.99 for 400ml, boots.com

CLAIM: ‘To protect and soothe sun- sensitive skin with Calmanelle.’

EXPERT VERDICT: Sun or photosensitivity is an exaggerated skin reaction to UV exposure, which can cause rashes, redness or irritation. It can run in families or be triggered by medications (e.g. acne treatment and antidepressants) or skin conditions such as rosacea or eczema.

The UV filter here, octocrylene, is shown to block UVA and UVB rays. Calmanelle is a branded blend of antioxidants and calming ingredients including the herb feverfew, often used to ease allergies – but there’s little independent evidence that these work better than common skin-calming ingredients such as urea or aloe vera.

Protective clothing and shade are the most effective strategies for photo-sensitivity. 6/10

Scalp protection

Soltan Clear & Cool Head & Scalp Suncare Mist SPF30, £6 for 100ml, boots.com

CLAIM: ‘Protects scalp and parting from the sun.’

EXPERT VERDICT: The scalp is a common but overlooked site for sun damage and skin cancer.

The mist format has clear advantages: it’s lightweight, non-greasy and less likely to leave residue in the hair compared to sun creams.

Application can be uneven with sprays though, so apply thoroughly. A dedicated scalp sunscreen is particularly helpful when swimming or in strong sun. 8/10

Skin pigmentation

Eucerin Pigment Control Anti Dark Spot Sun Fluid SPF50, £12.74 for 50ml, boots.com

CLAIM: ‘With thiamidol, which visibly reduces dark spots.’

EXPERT VERDICT: Skin hyperpigmentation is common – particularly in women (it’s often triggered or worsened by pregnancy, the Pill or HRT). There’s good evidence ingredients such as thiamidol can help reduce dark spots by inhibiting melanin production.

But consistent application of any well-formulated SPF50 sunscreen will also help prevent pigmentation – and avoiding too much time in the sun remains the cornerstone in reducing it. 7/10

It has all the makings of a summer night to remember. The hottest June day on record. A confident, free-scoring England taking on Ghana in their second game of the World Cup.

However, with 14million Britons expected to tune in for the 9pm kickoff at pubs across the nation, there are sure to be more than a few sore heads tomorrow morning – making early starts all the more difficult.

The nation already has form. Last Thursday, after England’s thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia, lateness to work doubled and employers reported sickies up 20 per cent on a normal day, according to HR software provider BrightHR.

But, for those who want to enjoy the match and still wake up feeling fresh the next morning, experts say they have the answers to avoid a mid-week hangover.

Growing research shows that certain types of alcohol are more likely to trigger the morning-after ills than others – meaning your choice of tipple could decide how lively you feel tomorrow.

And, according to dietician Nichola Ludlam-Raine, there are other steps drinkers can take to limit their suffering.

However, first, Ms Ludlam-Raine has some cautionary advice.

‘There isn’t a guaranteed hangover-free option,’ she says. ‘The biggest factors affecting how you feel the next day are usually how much you drink, how quickly you drink it, whether you’ve eaten beforehand, your hydration status, and how much sleep you get afterwards.’

With 14million Britons expected to tune in for the 9pm kickoff at pubs across the nation, there are sure to be more than a few sore heads tomorrow morning

But, she adds: ‘There are definitely some drinks that are worse than others for hangovers.’

Read on to find out more…

Pick the right beer… or suffer the consequences

For most people watching the football, a cold beer is the drink of choice – but experts say the strength of the hangover can vary.

Lagers tend have lower levels of congeners – the chemical by-products produced during fermentation that are widely believed to worsen hangovers – than darker ales, stouts or craft beers.

In 2010, a review by the Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies in the US found that, while alcohol itself is the leading cause of hangovers, beverages that contain higher levels of congeners, reliably lead to worse hangovers than those with few congeners.

However, experts say that the most important factor is the amount of alcohol in the beer, which can vary, even amongst lagers. Light lagers like Foster’s and Carlsberg tend to be around 3.4 per cent in alcohol.

But others, like Birra Moretti and Stella Artois, are around 4.6 per cent. Experts say that percentage change can be the difference between a manageable and killer hangover.

‘Ultimately, it’s all about the alcohol percentage,’ says Ms Ludlam-Raine.

Lagers tend have lower levels of congeners – the chemical by-products produced during fermentation that are widely believed to worsen hangovers – than darker ales, stouts or craft beers 

She also adds that the main issue with beer is that people often drink it instead of water which, particularly in this record heat, can have disastrous consequences.

‘You should be drinking beer because it is tasty, not because you are thirsty,’ Ms Ludlam-Raine says. ‘Dehydration leads to a worse hangover, and downing beer can’t replace a lack of water.

‘So try to have a glass of water alongside your beer.’

Why vodka and gin are your best bet… in moderation

If you’re going to drink, clear spirits might be your safest option, experts say.

Vodka and gin contain fewer congeners than darker drinks such as whisky, rum or brandy.

Vodka and gin also have fewer congeners than most beers – but experts point out that they have markedly higher levels of alcohol.

‘The darker the spirit, the worse the hangover,’ says Ms Ludlam-Raine.

‘But the alcohol percentage remains the best indicator of how likely you are to have a hangover.’

Vodka and gin contain fewer congeners than darker drinks such as whisky, rum or brandy

For this reason, experts say that the mixer matters just as much as the spirit.

Ms Ludlam-Raine recommends combining vodka or gin with soda water or diet tonic, as these are both hydrating and sugar-free.

‘Sugary drinks can sometimes worsen dehydration and contribute to headaches or poor sleep,’ she says.

‘So combining a clear spirit with a sugar-free option might be sensible, if drunken in small amounts.’

Go easy on the red wine

Red wine is one of the most common hangover culprits, say experts.

It contains some of the highest levels of congeners of any alcoholic drink, as well as tannins and histamines, which studies show can trigger headaches.

Meanwhile, white wines typically have lower levels of congeners, tannins and histamines – as well as lower levels of alcohol.

Red wine contains some of the highest levels of congeners of any alcoholic drink, as well as tannins and histamines, which studies show can trigger headaches 

Red wines generally range from 12.5 per cent to 15 per cent, while white wines fall between 10 per cent and 13.5 per cent.

However, experts say that white wine is not risk-free as it often contains twice as much alcohol as popular lagers.

Avoid cider like the plague

Ciders are more likely to trigger a painful hangover than most people realise, according to experts.

This because most commercial ciders – those typically served on draught at pubs – are high in sugar and often loaded with artificial flavourings.

Experts say the worst offenders tend to be berry-flavoured ciders, which often have even more sugar than the classic apple-flavoured variety.

Craft or dry ciders tend to have marginally less sugar than commercial brands, but experts say these will still raise the risk of an uncomfortable Wednesday morning.

‘Cider is high in sugar,’ says Ms Ludlam-Raine. ‘And generally that means the hangover will be worse.’

…And the habits that matter more than what’s in your glass

Eating a full meal and drinking enough water are both crucial to avoiding a hangover, say experts.

Consuming food before drinking is crucial because it slows down the body’s processing of alcohol. 

Studies show that boozing on an empty stomach means that the alcohol quickly enters the bloodstream, leading to heightened inebriation and an even worse hangover.

‘Avoid drinking on an empty stomach,’ says Ms Ludlam-Raine, who adds that the meal should be healthy. ‘Include some protein, fibre and healthy fats in your meal,’ she says.

She also recommends drinking plenty of water in the build-up to the game.

‘If you are dehydrated when you start drinking then you are going to have a worse hangover,’ she says.

‘The best way to know if you are getting enough water is to check the colour of your pee.

‘If it’s darker than pale straw, you need to drink more.’

She adds: ‘It’s also probably smart to alternate alcoholic drinks with water. And try to finish drinking a few hours before bed, as alcohol can disrupt sleep quality, which we know can make hangovers worse, even if it helps you fall asleep initially’.