Age-Related Loss of Smell Connected to Race
- 11 years ago
The odds of a person’s sense of smell weakening increase as the years pile on, but researchers believe that race may also play a role in the sensory decline.
The odds of a person’s sense of smell weakening increase as the years pile on, but researchers believe that race may also play a role in the sensory decline.
Overall, the loss becomes significantly measurable in about 25 percent of 55 year-olds and by the time people hit their 80’s, about 60 percent have experienced decreased smelling abilities.
In a study of 3,000 older adults, it was also observed that non-white participants experienced a compromised sense of smell at an accelerated rate, the comparative equivalent of being 9 years older.
The scope of the study didn’t offer insights as to why this was the case. The doctors involved acknowledged that apart from genetic differences, the results could be attributable to the life experiences and environmental conditions of the specific groups.
Regardless, loss of smell can lead to dangers and be symptomatic of deeper problems.
As smell is linked to taste, a loss of it could result in a failure to eat properly, which can lead to malnutrition and depression.
It can also be a sign of serious illnesses including Huntington’s disease, diabetes, and brain tumors.
The odds of a person’s sense of smell weakening increase as the years pile on, but researchers believe that race may also play a role in the sensory decline.
Overall, the loss becomes significantly measurable in about 25 percent of 55 year-olds and by the time people hit their 80’s, about 60 percent have experienced decreased smelling abilities.
In a study of 3,000 older adults, it was also observed that non-white participants experienced a compromised sense of smell at an accelerated rate, the comparative equivalent of being 9 years older.
The scope of the study didn’t offer insights as to why this was the case. The doctors involved acknowledged that apart from genetic differences, the results could be attributable to the life experiences and environmental conditions of the specific groups.
Regardless, loss of smell can lead to dangers and be symptomatic of deeper problems.
As smell is linked to taste, a loss of it could result in a failure to eat properly, which can lead to malnutrition and depression.
It can also be a sign of serious illnesses including Huntington’s disease, diabetes, and brain tumors.