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Updated: Oct 2, 2025
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A Free-breathing fMRI Method to Study Human Olfactory Function
Published on: July 30, 2017
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Measured and self-reported olfactory function in voluntary Norwegian adults
Ingrid Torvik Heian1,2, Anne-Sofie Helvik3,4, Thomas Hummel5
1Institute of Neuromedicine and Movement Science (INB), Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway. Ingrid.t.heian@ntnu.no.
Summary
Olfactory dysfunction (OD) affects 37% of healthy Norwegians, increasing with age. Self-reported smell ability doesn't match objective tests, highlighting the need for validated olfactory assessments.
Area of Science:
- Olfactory Neuroscience
- Epidemiology
- Clinical Auditory Science
Background:
- Limited epidemiological data exists on olfactory dysfunction (OD) in healthy Scandinavian adults.
- Comprehensive olfactory assessment is crucial for accurate evaluation.
- Understanding factors associated with OD is important for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of OD in healthy Norwegian adults using the Sniffin' Sticks test.
- To investigate the correlation between objective olfactory assessment and self-reported olfactory function.
- To analyze sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with olfactory function.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 405 healthy Norwegian adults (18-78 years) participated.
- Olfactory function was assessed using the extensive Sniffin' Sticks test.
- Participants completed questionnaires, allergy testing, and nasal endoscopy.
Main Results:
- 37% of participants exhibited olfactory dysfunction (OD), with 1.2% having anosmia.
- OD prevalence increased with age; men and those with lower education showed poorer scores.
- No correlation was found between self-reported and objectively measured olfactory function.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of healthy Norwegian adults experience olfactory dysfunction (OD).
- Age, sex, and education level are associated with olfactory function.
- Validated olfactory tests are essential, as self-perception may not accurately reflect objective olfactory capacity.
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