World Taste & Smell Association Opens Research Survey

The World Taste & Smell Association (WTSA) has embarked on its inaugural research initiative with a new survey.  The primary objective is to gather comprehensive data on taste and smell disorders, focusing on understanding healthspan, economic impact and related factors, say stakeholders.

The survey will capture a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and sensory data, including sensory disorders. Participants will be asked to reflect on their taste and smell perceptions, any changes they have noticed over time, and how these changes have affected their lives—socially, economically, and psychologically. The survey will identify the broad spectrum of taste and smell disorders, their duration and severity, and potential links to other health conditions, behaviors, and economic impact.

WTSA will assess participants’ engagement with treatments or coping strategies, offering insights into how individuals are managing sensory loss and where gaps in care or support may exist.

In December 2024, WTSA expects to have a robust dataset, which will undergo thorough analysis to uncover trends and patterns. The findings will play a pivotal role in advancing sensory research and will be shared widely in Spring 2025 through peer-reviewed publications, conferences, and outreach initiatives to raise awareness of the significance of taste and smell disorders.

WTSA invites innovators, researchers, and underwriters to collaborate, according to Mindy Yang, sensory expert and WTSA co-founder.

“Whether you want to support this study, develop something new together, or explore partnership opportunities, we’d love to connect. This is an exciting chance to unlock better data and create innovative solutions for the future of sensory health,” Yang said.