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Security personnel reacted immediately, rushing to assist the minister, as did Prime Minister Kristersson.
Her collapse comes at a time when Sweden’s healthcare system is under scrutiny
Elisabet Lann, Sweden’s newly appointed Minister for Health, collapsed on stage during a live press conference on Tuesday, just hours after being named to the post. The dramatic scene unfolded in front of a full room of journalists and senior government officials, including Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Christian Democrats party leader Ebba Busch, reported TMZ.
Lann was introduced earlier that day as the successor to Acko Ankarberg Johansson, who resigned unexpectedly on Monday for undisclosed personal reasons. Lann, a member of the Christian Democrats, previously served as a municipal councilor in Gothenburg, where she was known for her work on social welfare and healthcare issues.
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According to eyewitnesses and footage captured during the event, Lann had just concluded her remarks and was stepping back when she suddenly lost consciousness. She collapsed to the floor, bringing down her translucent podium with her. The moment occurred while other speakers were sharing a lighthearted moment, unaware of the sudden medical emergency unfolding just feet away.
Security personnel reacted immediately, rushing to assist the minister, as did Prime Minister Kristersson and several others on stage. Lann appeared unconscious after the fall and reportedly hit her head on the lectern.
She was helped offstage but returned to the room a short time later. “This was not exactly a normal Tuesday, and this is what can happen when you have a blood sugar drop,” she said, attributing the episode to low blood sugar. A spokesperson later reiterated that Lann had fainted mid-event and had since recovered enough to return briefly to address attendees.
Q&A sessions and further scheduled remarks were cancelled following the incident. Although it remains unclear whether Lann received formal medical treatment, local reports indicated she did not appear seriously injured.
Her collapse comes at a time when Sweden’s healthcare system is under scrutiny, facing growing pressure over hospital wait times and staff shortages, some of the key issues that Lann was expected to address. The abrupt end to her first public appearance raised questions about whether she would be able to immediately take up the demanding role.
No official updates on her medical condition have been released by the government.
Sweden
September 10, 2025, 01:09 IST
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