Commentary on Patient Advocacy and Research Priorities in Olfactory and Gustatory Disorders.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This paper outlines the challenges faced by people with smell and taste disorders (SATDs) and why patient advocacy is crucial in addressing these. It includes recent findings in identifying research priorities in SATDs.

RECENT FINDINGS: A recent Priority Setting Partnership (PSP) conducted with the James Lind Alliance (JLA) has been completed and the top 10 research priorities in SATDs determined. Fifth Sense, a UK charity, has been working alongside patient and healthcare professions to drive awareness, education and research in this area.

SUMMARY: Following the completion of the PSP, Fifth Sense have launched six Research Hubs to take forward these priorities and engage with researchers to carry out and deliver research that directly answers the questions raised by the results of the PSP. The six Research Hubs cover a different aspect of smell and taste disorders. Each hub is led by clinicians and researchers recognised for their expertise in their field, who will act as champions for their respective hub.