Scientists have revealed that individuals who are unable to swallow a certain number of times within 30 seconds may carry deadly conditions. Medically known as “dysphagia,” difficulty in swallowing can be a sign of serious health issues such as cancer, lung diseases, or dementia. One of the most common methods used for detecting dysphagia is the Repetitive Saliva Swallowing Test. This test, which can easily be conducted at home, requires the person to attempt to swallow as many times as possible within half a minute, without consuming any food or drink.

Through one of the most comprehensive studies conducted to date, scientists have established the average number of swallows individuals in different age groups should achieve. Research has shown that individuals between the ages of 20-39 need to swallow approximately 8.5 times in 30 seconds. Those in their 40s are expected to swallow eight times, those in their 50s around seven times, individuals in their 60s should aim for an average of 6.7 swallows, and individuals in their 70s are advised to swallow six times. Those in their 80s should be able to swallow at least 4.3 times within the same timeframe.

Individuals who do not reach the swallowing targets set for their age group may be subjected to further tests to investigate health problems that could lead to dysphagia, such as lung diseases and cancer. An article published in the Dysphagia journal highlighted how this study expanded the range of considered healthy swallowing values compared to previous research. It also mentioned that the previously established basic threshold in the Repetitive Saliva Swallowing Test, indicating a healthy number of swallows at three for all adults. Researchers suggested that values set for individuals aged 80 and above should be further examined.

The study pointed out that age-related differences in swallowing are due to physiological changes in throat muscles as people age. Additionally, it noted that men tend to swallow more on average than women, which could be another influencing factor in test results. Experts emphasized the need for further exploration of the reasons behind these gender differences.

Dysphagia is usually a symptom of an underlying condition and not a disorder on its own. The UK National Health Service (NHS) notes that swallowing difficulties can range from mild conditions like acid reflux to more severe conditions like esophageal cancer. Swallowing problems could be early signs of serious illnesses such as stomach cancer. Just last month, a mother of four revealed that swallowing issues were the first signs of stomach cancer for her, which she initially dismissed as a complication of her weight loss diet.

Swallowing difficulties could also be indicative of throat cancer. While the research is one of the most extensive studies in the field, it has some limitations. Although participants’ health conditions were assessed beforehand, no diagnostic tests were performed, leading to the inclusion of individuals with undiagnosed health issues. Additionally, participants were tested only 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 needed, as highlighted by the study.