116 Smell Loss and the Brain

Did you know there is a connection between loss of smell and Parkinson's disease? In fact, it may turn out to be a predictor of the disease up to 10 years before a clinic diagnosis of PD.  Here are some interesting stats:

1. ·          100% of major brain disorders are associated with smell loss
2. ·          96% of newly diagnosed people with Parkinson's have lost some ability to smell
3. ·          70% of people living with smell loss don't know it until they are tested
4. ·          50% of people over the age of 60 may be living with smell loss

I am fortunate to have spoken to a leader in the research of smell loss, Dr. Richard Doty. We had a fascinating discussion on smell loss and what it can mean for those suffering including a loss of taste which may lead to weight loss. Additionally, we chatted about the work the MJFF is doing with its landmark smell loss study through the PPMI program. Using Dr. Doty's scratch-and-sniff test, PPMI hopes to help scientists learn more about this risk factor for PD. I've taken it twice. I don't think I passed it.

https://www.michaeljfox.org/smell-loss-brain-health-request-your-smell-test

https://mysmelltest.org/mjffbsd

https://sensonics.com/product/smell-identification-test/

https://www.dbsandme.com/en.html