Professor emeritus Peter Strang of Karolinska Institutet has been awarded the Swedish Government's medal "Illis quorum meruere labores". The Latin name of the medal means 'To those whose labors have deserved it'. He receives the award for his outstanding contributions and long-standing research in palliative medicine, particularly for highlighting the importance of existential perspectives in end-of-life care.
The medal, originally instituted by King Gustav III in 1785, has since 1975 been awarded by the government to individuals whose work is deemed exceptionally meritorious. Peter Strang is one of eight persons awarded this medal in 2025. The award ceremony will take place at the Prime Minister's residence, Sager House, during the autumn of 2025.
Peter Strang was Sweden's first professor of palliative medicine and has held positions at both Linköping University and Karolinska Institutet. His research spans several fields - from clinical laboratory studies to issues related to existential crises and the impact of loneliness on health. In recent years, he has focused on registry-based research on equitable cancer care at the end of life. He has also published several popular science books on involuntary loneliness and health.
"I'm surprised and honored," says Peter Strang , professor emeritus at the Department of Oncology-Pathology . "My research has often revolved around topics such as existential loneliness and the role of care in the final stages of life. It feels meaningful that the government is now highlighting these perspectives."
In the government's justification:
"For his outstanding contributions and research in palliative medicine, where he has particularly emphasized the importance of existential perspectives for quality care, and for his significant efforts in making knowledge about loneliness and its profound impact on human health widely accessible."
Peter Strang's work aligns with the government's focus on existential health and loneliness as a risk factor for poor health - two priority areas where his research has had a major impact.
