Research into physical exercise and health rewarded by Folksam

[PRESS RELEASE 2010-09-06] The 2010 Folksam Prize in Epidemiological Research is awarded to professor Steven N Blair of the University of South Carolina, USA, one of the world´s foremost researchers in the field of physical exercise and its effects on health. The prize is worth SEK 100,000 and will be awarded at Karolinska Institutet´s installation ceremony in the Berwald Hall on 3 November 2010.

Professor Blair, who works at the Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina, is an internationally renowned expert in the field of physical exercise and its impact on health. His research investigates the relationship between lifestyle and health with a distinct focus on training, physical capacity, physical constitution and chronic disease.

"Professor Blair has made invaluable contributions to public health through his research into how exercise and physical activity lead to a longer, healthier life, and he has brought his and other scientists' findings to the attention of decision-makers and the general public with tireless enthusiasm," says Professor Anders Ahlbom, chair of the award committee.

Blair´s research includes several important methodological contributions to the field, such as objective methods for quantifying physical capacity and evaluating interventions aimed at influencing lifestyles. He has also helped to draw up general national guidelines for physical activity and has been the scientific editor for the US Surgeon General's report on physical activity and health.

Folksam has been helping to develop epidemiological and preventative research in the public health field for many years. In 2005, the company took a decision to donate money to Karolinska Institute for the "Folksam Prize in Epidemiological Research".

Download press photographs of the prizewinner and the chair of the award committee from our website at

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