We mourn the passing of CMHF Laureate Henry Friesen, MD

July 31, 1934 - April 30, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of Dr. Henry Friesen, a distinguished Canadian Medical Hall of Fame Laureate, on April 30, 2025, at the age of 90. Dr. Friesen was a towering figure in medical research, having discovered the hormone prolactin and founded the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). As a result of his ground-breaking discovery of the hormone prolactin, he developed the drug Bromocriptine in collaboration with researchers in the pharmaceutical industry. This drug is still used today as an effective treatment of infertility in thousands of women, a testament to the direct and profound impact of his work on countless lives.

In addition, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research remains Canada’s premier health agency and is made up of 13 different virtual institutes. Each year, they invest $1 billion to support over 13,000 researchers and trainees, fostering the next generation of scientific leaders and driving forward health discoveries across the nation. The establishment of CIHR is a lasting legacy of Dr. Friesen's vision and dedication to advancing health research in Canada.

While we mourn the loss of Dr. Friesen, we find solace in the memories of his pioneering spirit, his unwavering commitment to scientific excellence, and the positive impact he had on the lives he touched through his research and leadership. His legacy will continue to shine brightly, serving as a reminder of what can be achieved through determination, intellect, and a genuine desire to improve human health.

Watch his Laureate Tribute Video
Obituary: Henry Friesen, 1934-2025