Dysphagia, or swallowing issues, can affect individuals of all ages, although it is more commonly observed in older adults and those with certain health conditions.
The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) estimates that dysphagia affects around 8% of the global population. However, it’s important to note that the prevalence of dysphagia can vary significantly depending on factors such as age, underlying health conditions, and geographical location.
It is difficult to understand that for a condition that affects so many people, reliable statistics are hard to come by. Many people who have swallowing issues have never heard of the term dysphagia and what can be done to help the challenge they face.
In the UK alone 8% of the population would account for 5 million people (forecast as at June 2023 based on Population statistics from the Office for National Statistics’ of 67 million in mid-2020)
It is acknowledged that we are an ageing population. As dysphagia is more common in older adults, countries with an ageing population – such as the UK – are expected to see a growing number of people living with swallowing issues in the coming years.
If you or someone you care for has swallowing issues you are not alone. Contact your medical adviser to find out what assistance they arrange to help deal with the issues are you are encountering.