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Epidemiology of smell and taste dysfunction
1Smell and Taste Center and Department of Otorhinolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
Handbook of Clinical Neurology
|October 13, 2019
Summary
Chemosensory disorders, affecting smell and taste, are common, particularly in older men. Prevalence estimates vary due to many factors and testing methods, but are consistently higher in males and the elderly.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Epidemiology
- Sensory Science
Background:
- Chemosensory disorders, impacting smell and taste, are prevalent but difficult to quantify.
- Prevalence estimates are influenced by numerous interacting factors like age, gender, environment, and genetics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review major epidemiologic studies on the prevalence of chemosensory disorders.
- To explore factors contributing to these disorders, especially in the aging population.
Main Methods:
- Review of population-based epidemiologic studies.
- Analysis of factors influencing chemosensory dysfunction.
Main Results:
- Chemosensory disorders are common, with higher prevalence in men and older individuals.
- Wide variations in prevalence estimates exist due to differing methodologies and demographic factors.
Conclusions:
- Chemosensory disorders are a significant public health concern, particularly among aging populations.
- Understanding contributing factors is crucial for addressing prevalence variations.
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