Towards universal chemosensory testing: needs, barriers, and opportunities.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Policy
• Sensory Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Chemosensory disorders (anosmia, parosmia, dysgeusia) affect millions, diminishing quality of life and safety.
• These dysfunctions are linked to poor nutrition, social isolation, frailty, anxiety, depression, and can indicate underlying diseases.
• Older adults are disproportionately affected, yet smell and taste are rarely assessed in routine care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify barriers to integrating routine chemosensory testing into US healthcare.
• To explore opportunities for overcoming these barriers and promoting universal testing.
• To foster discussion among scientists, clinicians, patients, and experts on chemosensory health.

Main Methods:

• Convened the "Towards Universal Chemosensory Testing" conference (November 5-7, 2023, Philadelphia, PA).
• Brought together diverse stakeholders including scientists, clinicians, and patients.
• Focused discussions on barriers and solutions within the US healthcare system.

Main Results:

• Prevalence and significant impact of smell/taste disorders on health and quality of life.
• Lack of regular chemosensory assessment in routine healthcare represents a missed opportunity.
• Identified the need for a multi-stakeholder approach to overcome testing barriers.

Conclusions:

• Routine chemosensory testing is vital for early detection, patient support, and identifying underlying health conditions.
• Addressing barriers is essential to implement universal chemosensory testing.
• The conference provided a platform for collaborative strategies to improve chemosensory healthcare.