Sociodemographic and biochemical correlates of self-reported taste dysfunction: an NHANES analysis

Taste dysfunction affects approximately 1 in 5 Americans over age 40, yet its relationship with biochemical and hematological markers remains poorly understood. This study investigated whether biochemical and hematologic markers are associated with self-reported taste dysfunction.

Pooled NHANES data from 2011 to 2014 were analyzed. The final sample included 3,595 adults aged ≥20 years who provided a definitive response regarding whether they experienced taste problems. Survey-weighted logistic regression identified independent predictors among socio-demographic factors and biochemical markers.

219 (6.1 %) individuals reported taste problems. In fully adjusted models, advancing age (aOR=1.02; p=0.034), Non-Hispanic White (aOR=2.54) or Black race (aOR=2.45), less than a high school education (aOR=1.59), and lower household income (p=0.002) were independently associated with taste dysfunction. Only serum albumin (aOR=0.41; p=0.044), percent of saturated fatty acids (aOR=0.88; p=0.006), percent of monounsaturated fatty acids (aOR=1.14; p=0.006), and serum copper levels (aOR=1.02; p=0.006) were associated with taste problems. None of the hematologic labs examined were associated with taste problems.

Sociodemographic factors and limited biochemical abnormalities are associated with self-reported taste problems. Future prospective studies are required to confirm these findings.