Researchers have discovered that individuals who cannot swallow a specified number of times in 30 seconds may be carrying life-threatening conditions, by determining how many times healthy individuals can swallow within that time frame. Medically known as “dysphagia,” difficulty swallowing can be a precursor to serious health issues such as cancer, lung diseases, or dementia.

One of the most common methods for detecting dysphagia is the Repetitive Saliva Swallowing Test. This test, which can easily be done at home, involves the individual attempting to swallow as many times as possible within half a minute without consuming any food or drink.

By conducting one of the most comprehensive studies to date, scientists have determined the number of swallows individuals in different age groups should aim for. Research shows that individuals between the ages of 20-39 should ideally swallow an average of 8.5 times in 30 seconds. Those in their 40s are expected to swallow eight times, while individuals in their 50s are believed to swallow around seven times. It is stated that individuals in their 60s should ideally swallow an average of 6.7 times, and those in their 70s should aim for six swallows. Additionally, it was concluded that individuals in their 80s should be able to swallow at least 4.3 times during this period.

Individuals who do not meet these swallowing benchmarks for their age group may undergo further tests to investigate health issues that could lead to dysphagia, such as lung diseases and cancer.

In a study published in the Dysphagia journal, it was emphasized that the range of acceptable swallowing values considered healthy in this study is much broader compared to previous research. Moreover, it is noted that the basic value previously determined in the Repetitive Saliva Swallowing Test for healthy swallowing in adults is only three. Researchers suggest that the values identified for individuals aged 80 and above should be further examined.

The study highlighted that age-related differences in swallowing are due to physiological changes in throat muscles as individuals age. Additionally, it was noted that, on average, men perform more swallows than women, which could be another factor influencing test results. Experts suggest that the reasons behind these gender differences require further investigation.

Dysphagia is typically a sign of an underlying medical condition and not a standalone ailment. The UK National Health Service (NHS) indicates that this issue can span from mild conditions such as acid reflux to serious illnesses like esophageal cancer. Difficulty swallowing could be an early indication of severe diseases like stomach cancer. Last month, a mother of four revealed that the initial symptoms of her stomach cancer were swallowing problems, which she initially dismissed as a complication of her weight loss diet.

Furthermore, difficulty swallowing could also be an indicator of laryngeal cancer. Despite being one of the most comprehensive studies in the field, the research has some limitations. While participants’ health statuses were previously assessed, no diagnostic tests were conducted, leading to the inclusion of individuals with undiagnosed health issues. Additionally, participants were only tested once, and it was not recorded whether they had consumed any food or drink before the test.

While these findings are considered a significant step towards early detection and treatment, further research is emphasized.