Study finds potential connection between smell loss, depression

Investigators may have uncovered an association between olfactory impairment and depression.

In a systematic review and meta-analysis published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, the investigators used data from the PubMed, Embase, EBSCOhost and Web of Science databases to identify 23 cross-sectional and longitudinal studies involving more than 180,000 adult participants — with the goal of better understanding the relationship between objective and subjective olfactory impairment and depression.

The investigators found that those with subjective olfactory impairment had a higher likelihood of experiencing depression. Objective olfactory impairment did not demonstrate a strong correlation with depression risk and was nonsignificant following adjustment. However, there was still a potential link between objective olfactory impairment in participants aged 65 years and older and those with anosmia.

Although further studies may be needed to evaluate the causal mechanisms behind the association, the investigators hypothesized that negative perceptions may drive the relationship.

Read more: JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery

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