Recognizing leaders in lung health

Dr. Sanja Stanojevic is among 39 recipients selected by the Canadian Lung Association to receive the King Charles III Coronation Medal.   

The Canadian Lung Association is one of a select number of national organizations chosen by the Government of Canada to nominate deserving recipients to receive the King Charles III Coronation Medal, which is presented to those who have made a significant contribution to Canada, or a province, territory, region or community of Canada, or achieved excellence abroad that brings credit to Canada.

In collaboration with their partners and the public, the Canadian Lung Association recognized leaders in respiratory research, clinical care, advocacy, and education for their lasting impact on lung health in Canada.

Dr. Stanojevic is a respiratory epidemiologist whose interdisciplinary research has transformed the diagnosis and management of lung disease across the lifespan. One of her most significant contributions is the development of lung function growth charts, which have fundamentally changed how lung function measurements are interpreted. This breakthrough has had a direct impact on the diagnosis of lung disease, shaping clinical practice worldwide.

Beyond her research, Dr. Stanojevic plays a key role in advocacy and leadership on both national and international levels. She currently serves as chair of the American Thoracic Society Pulmonary Function Committee and was recently elected director of the European Respiratory Society Clinical Research Collaboration Network. She has also led multiple American and European Task Forces, producing state-of-the-art technical standards that are widely used globally.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Stanojevic chaired a Canadian Thoracic Society working group that provided critical guidance on aerosol precautions for lung function testing. She worked closely with non-profit and government organizations, leading national roundtables, briefing Health Ministers, and contributing to a national advocacy campaign to ensure healthcare professionals had access to appropriate personal protective equipment.

In Atlantic Canada, Dr. Stanojevic has been a strong advocate for improved access to diagnostic testing for lung health. Collaborating with provincial lung associations, she has worked to enhance awareness and ensure patients receive timely and accurate assessments, reinforcing her commitment to both scientific advancement and patient care.

“Being awarded a King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition for my work in respiratory health is an honour,” says Dr. Stanojevic. “It reinforced my passion and dedication to further improve the lives of people living with lung conditions. Importantly, this award also reflects the amazing teams that that I am privileged to work with, both those here in Halifax, and internationally.” 

Dr. Stanojevic will be recognized along with the other recipients during a virtual ceremony this month.  

Learn more here.