Detection of various ailments (including several kinds of cancer) seem to be amenable via volatile compounds excreted from the skin, and that’s exciting. But there’s another twist on using smell to detect pre-symptomatic Parkinson’s Disease.

Back in 2007 I co-founded a health services company in conjunction with leading researchers, clinicians, and doctors. We utilized the very latest science and built one of the first predictive artificial intelligence applications, all in the aid of identifying at a far earlier stage than typical, the chronic ailments that strike so many of our older citizens.

With regards to Parkinson’s Disease there are three critical indicators which, if they all present with a 6 month period, are highly predictive of subsequent onset within the following decade. These indicators are: (i) significant reduction in olfactory sensitivity, (ii) restless sleep patterns, and (iii) persistent constipation.

Using a standard olfactory threshold test, in conjunction with reported symptoms, can enable a doctor to make an early diagnosis and prescribe medications at a very low dose to hold off development of classical symptoms for several years. Which is a very good outcome for the patient.