Self-Reported Smell and Taste Disorders in the General Population: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Austria, Germany and Switzerland

To assess the prevalence, symptom profiles, and quality-of-life (QOL) impact of Smell and Taste Disorders (SATDs) across adult populations in Austria, Germany and Switzerland. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in January 2025 among 2,340 non-institutionalised adults (≥ 18 years) residing in Austria (n = 1,023), Germany (n = 1,031), and Switzerland (n = 286). Participants were recruited via Dynata, an established online research panel whose members had consented to receive survey invitations. Respondents completed the culturally adapted and validated Smell-Qx questionnaire assessing SATDs, aetiology, and quality of life. Multivariable linear regression identified predictors of reduced QOL, measured using the Smell-Qx QoL item. Overall, 40% (n = 945) of respondents reported at least one symptom, with olfactory intolerance (29%, n = 686), phantosmia (27%, n = 622), and parosmia (19%, n = 451) being the most common. Among those with SATDs, 62% reported unchanged or worsening symptoms since onset, and 41% reported decreased life satisfaction. An adjusted analyses showed: phantosmia (p < 0.001) and parosmia (p < 0.001) were the strongest independent predictors of reduced QoL. Qualitative symptoms, particularly parosmia and phantosmia, are prevalent and persistent in the post-COVID population and are strongly associated with diminished quality of life. Although the voluntary nature of survey participation is likely to favour selection bias, probably overrepresenting individuals with more persistent or severe symptoms, the present findings certainly reflect a shifting aetiology of SATDs and highlight the need for targeted treatments, structured care models, and multidisciplinary approaches to address this emerging public health burden.