UEA researchers call for 'worldwide campaign' to improve smell health
It's as work has found that what's called 'smell dysfunction' is present in more than 130 different disorders
Local researchers are calling for a 'worldwide campaign' to improve smell health across the board
It comes from those at the University of East Anglia, after it was found the sense is often overlooked as a “Cinderella sense” by public health.
Smell dysfunction is present in more than 130 neurological, somatic and hereditary disorders, with some evidence suggesting a causal role.
"“The sense of smell should be promoted as an essential pillar of health"
Lead researcher Professor Carl Philpott is from UEA’s Norwich Medical School:
“A good sense of smell is vital for physical and mental health, and social wellbeing.
“However, smell remains a Cinderella sense which has lagged behind sight and hearing in terms of its perceived importance.
“Smell health underpins good nutrition, cognitive function, and psychological resilience. But national public health agendas around the world rarely consider smell health.
“Even before the emergence of Covid-19, smell disorders were very common but under-rated, under-researched, and under-treated sensory loss.
“Smell issues occur in at least 139 different neurological, physical, and inherited conditions. Research suggests smell loss may play a causal role because it often appears early and can predict future health issues.
“Increasing evidence has shown that smell loss is an independent risk factor for neurodegenerative disorders, increased frailty and reduced longevity.”
“The sense of smell should be promoted as an essential pillar of health, as it enables good nutrition and cognitive and psychological well-being.
“We recommend developing smell health educational programmes and awareness campaigns, introducing smell screening and developing and implementing smell health policies across all sectors of society.
“Inclusive efforts are particularly needed to ensure equity and diversity, particularly given the current demographic as those seeking help are typically not from a diverse cross-section of the community,” he added.
‘The Need to Promote Olfactory Health in Public Health Agendas Across the Globe’ is published in the journal Clinical Otolaryngology