Can’t Smell That? Science Says It Might Mean More Than You Think

A recent study has found that olfactory decline could serve as an indicator of mortality risk.

The findings, published in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery, explore the relationship between decreased sense of smell and risk of death.

Our body’s sensory capacities gradually deteriorate as we age or approach death from illness. Although the body’s five senses—taste, smell, touch, hearing, and vision—all deteriorate, vision and hearing are the most obvious and are examined during physical examinations.

Recent research has increasingly demonstrated that olfactory function can also determine mortality.

The research team reviewed medical records from over 2,500 adults who participated in the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care in Kungsholmen to examine the relationship between a diminished sense of smell and health status. According to the study’s findings, the risk of dying from all causes increased by 6% for six years and 5% for twelve years with each incorrect response on the 16-item odor identification test. Neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases showed the strongest correlation with mortality risk.

Among these, dementia was the most prevalent, causing over 25% of all fatalities. The researchers noted that current health screenings only include vision and hearing tests, with no assessments related to smell. However, a diminished sense of smell significantly indicates declining health.

They claimed that straightforward, noninvasive olfactory tests could potentially enhance the health of older people as the global population ages. Based on these findings, the researchers concluded that a diminished sense of smell is linked to a higher risk of death.