The physiology of deglutition and the pathophysiology and complications of oropharyngeal dysphagia.
The opening session of the 2nd International Conference on Oropharyngeal Dysphagia featured a series of invited talks reviewing the definition of dysphagia, its prevalence and its pathophysiology. The discussion arising from these talks focused heavily on the current underrecognition of dysphagia as a significant concern for older adults, particularly those over 75. The burdens associated with dysphagia in this sector of the population were recognized to be substantial, both in social/psychological terms and in terms of economic consequences for the healthcare system. The importance of developing swallow screening protocols as a routine method for the early identification of dysphagia and aspiration was explored. The idea of launching political initiatives aimed at increasing awareness and the utilization of appropriate dysphagia healthcare codes was also discussed.
Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University of Toronto, and Bloorview Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada.
Catriona M
CM
Steele
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D017281:Cost of Illness; D003679:Deglutition / Q000502:physiology*; D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology; D042241:Early Diagnosis; D017048:Health Care Costs; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D015995:Prevalence; D053120:Respiratory Aspiration / Q000209:etiology