Sri Lankan researcher Dr. Delgama A.S.M. Nishadhi has received the Medical Encouragement Award 2026 at Nagoya University in Japan, becoming the first Sri Lankan to secure the honour.

Dr. Nishadhi, who hails from Anuradhapura, was recognised for her research on environmental pollution and its impact on allergic diseases, including allergic rhinitis. Her findings, published in leading international journals, highlight how fine air particles such as PM2.5 can worsen allergy symptoms.

She completed her PhD at Nagoya University’s Graduate School of Medicine, where her work has also gained attention in Japanese media.

In addition to the university award, she was recognised with the Best Oral Presentation Young Investigator Award at the 96th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society for Hygiene.