The Influence of Common Noncommunicable Diseases on Chemosensory Perception and Clinical Implications in Children and Adolescents

An increased incidence of noninfectious chronic diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and allergies, has been noted in the last century, especially in the last 2 to 3 generations. Evidence suggested that the interrelation among these chronic conditions in pediatric age (e.g., children and adolescents aged 4-16 y) is complex and still unknown, reinforcing the interest of pediatricians in these diseases. Of interest is the need to better understand the link between these pathologies and sensory perception, since the chemical senses of taste and smell, together with chemesthesis, are reported to have a role in food choices and may provide a novel target for intervention in the treatment of these pathologies. This review aims to explore the current evidence on the link between these chronic conditions and chemosensory perception (i.e., taste and smell). In addition, the putative role that chemosensory perception may have on food choices and eating behavior of children and adolescents affected by these diseases are highlighted. Furthermore, the review addresses the unexplored issues that need to be investigated in this area. The literature data search suggested that no clear relation between taste and smell perception and the aforementioned diseases in young population yet exists. However, some possible trends have been highlighted in the adult population, in whom the duration of disease might have affected the relation. There is a need for further, high-quality, hypothesis-led research, with robust measures of taste and smell functions as the primary outcomes, to strengthen or deny this evidence. Statement of Significance: The recent increase in noninfectious chronic diseases in pediatric population has reinforced the interest in research on these pathologies. One of the hotspots is the need to better understand the link between sensory perception, nutrition, and health status. In this review, we highlight the paucity of data and the urgent need for knowledge about this topic in children and summarize current data on the link between these chronic conditions and chemosensory perception (i.e., taste and smell). We also discuss the putative role that chemosensory perception may have on food choices and eating behavior of children and adolescents affected by obesity, diabetes, and allergies.

Automated summary

There has been an increase in noninfectious chronic diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and allergies, in the past century, especially among younger generations. The complex interrelation between these chronic conditions and sensory perception (taste and smell) in pediatric age is still unknown and requires further research. Understanding the potential impact of sensory perception on food choices and eating behavior of children and adolescents affected by these diseases is crucial.