Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2015
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What this document is
This page summarises the press release announcing the 2015 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine — the official statement issued by the Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet naming that year’s laureates and the work being honoured.
Announcements of this kind set out who has won, in what proportions the prize is shared, and a concise explanation of the scientific achievements being recognised.
What it covers
The 2015 prize honoured discoveries in the treatment of some of the most damaging parasitic diseases affecting hundreds of millions of people:
- William C. Campbell and Satoshi Ōmura: for work leading to avermectin, whose derivative ivermectin is used against roundworm parasites such as those causing river blindness and lymphatic filariasis;
- Tu Youyou: for the discovery of artemisinin, a therapy that has markedly reduced mortality from malaria.
The prize was divided into two halves, with Campbell and Ōmura sharing one half and Tu Youyou awarded the other.
Why it matters
These discoveries have had an extraordinary impact on global health, transforming the treatment of diseases that predominantly affect people in some of the world’s poorest regions. The recognition also highlighted the value of natural-product research and of long-standing scientific traditions.
Because Nobel announcements are widely referenced by media, educators and researchers, external sites link to this file. We host a neutral summary here to preserve those links, and point readers to the official Nobel Prize website for the authoritative text.
Frequently asked questions
Who won the 2015 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine?
The prize was awarded jointly, with one half shared by William C. Campbell and Satoshi Ōmura, and the other half to Tu Youyou, for discoveries concerning novel therapies against parasitic diseases and malaria.
What were the discoveries recognised?
Campbell and Ōmura were recognised for work leading to avermectin, whose derivative ivermectin is used against roundworm parasites, including in river blindness and lymphatic filariasis. Tu Youyou was recognised for artemisinin, a drug that has significantly reduced deaths from malaria.
Who awards this prize?
The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine is awarded by the Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden. The winners are announced each October.
Where can I read the official announcement?
The official summary is published on the Nobel Prize website. This page is a reference summary only.