Holistal’s Perspective on Nobel Week Dialogue 2024

Today, I had the privilege of attending the Nobel Week Dialogue 2024 in Stockholm, where this year’s theme was “The Future of Health.” As a representative of Holistal, an organization that views health from a holistic perspective, it was inspiring to engage in discussions and meet others who share our vision that health is so much more than just the absence of disease.

What is Health?

According to the WHO, health is defined as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being.” But what does this mean in practice, especially in a world where pandemics, climate change, and growing inequalities affect us all? This was one of the central questions of today’s dialogue. For Holistal, the answer is clear: health is wholeness. It’s about understanding the connections between body, mind, society, and environment—and working on preventive measures that strengthen the whole person.

Insights from Today’s Dialogue

Nobel laureates such as Charles Rice (Medicine 2020), Michael Rosbash (Medicine 2017), and Drew Weissman (Medicine 2023) shared their groundbreaking discoveries in medicine and biotechnology. These innovations, from new vaccines to advances in genetic research, offer hope that we can prevent and treat diseases more effectively in the future.

At the same time, other speakers, like Ola Rosling from the Gapminder Foundation, emphasized the importance of data and facts in understanding global health challenges. His presentation reminded us that our approach to health must be evidence-based, integrating both quantitative and qualitative perspectives.

Another highlight was the discussion on planetary health—how the health of our environment and ecosystems directly impacts us as individuals. Joakim Larsson from the University of Gothenburg, for instance, shed light on the links between antibiotic resistance and environmental pollution, aligning perfectly with Holistal’s perspective on addressing health through a systems-based approach.

Holistal’s Role in the Future of Health

At Holistal, we work to create solutions that are sustainable for both people and the planet. Our holistic approach focuses on preventing ill-health by strengthening people’s mental, physical, and social well-being—while also addressing the global challenges we all face.

Today’s dialogue made it clear that this approach is timely. The future of health demands that we move beyond traditional healthcare systems and develop innovative methods that empower individuals and communities from the ground up.

A Hopeful Future

Participating in the Nobel Week Dialogue 2024 was a reminder that we are not alone in our mission. By bringing together leading experts, researchers, and decision-makers under one roof, we gained a clearer picture of what is needed to create a healthier future—and how Holistal can contribute to that journey.

Health is not just a personal matter; it is a shared responsibility that impacts the entire planet. We look forward to continuing our work in collaboration with other organizations, researchers, and innovators who share our vision for a more holistic approach to health.

Birgitta Thörn

CEO, Holistal