DYSPHAGIA AWARENESS MONTH!

As we come to the end of Dysphagia Awareness Month, I would like to thank all those who live with dysphagia and who give us inspiration and motivate our Society’s research efforts.  I would also like to thank those who have prioritized care of swallowing, looked after loved ones with swallow impairments, supported caregivers helping those with dysphagia, and supported in any way, those who are searching for better treatments, greater understanding and new ways of improving the lives of swallow-impaired individuals.  These efforts help to generate awareness and reduce stigma regarding swallow problems.

As a Society, our members are focused on improving every aspect of life for those with swallowing disorders from physical assistance to psychological support.  Our mission is to continue to expand the options for care and develop more knowledge of mechanisms and factors at play when considering swallowing impairments.  We wish to shine a light on the impact that swallowing problems impose on individuals, families and our health systems.  In this way we can encourage awareness and support of our patients and provide assurance that their struggles are seen and recognized.

Dysphagia Research Society also acknowledges the many other groups and individuals who strive to improve the lives of dysphagic people.  We value our close associations with vocal supporters of dysphagia research including the European Society for Swallowing Disorders, the Japanese Society for Dysphagia Rehabilitation, the National Foundation of Swallowing Disorders as well as many other Societies in our global community of dysphagia researchers.  Together we can achieve meaningful change and advancement of the science of deglutology.

Finally, I would like to acknowledge the DRS members and their sponsors who have participated and supported our first DRS Run for Research.  This event has raised significant funds to support student travel grants and educational activities and again demonstrates our commitment to driving dysphagia research forward.

I hope for better COVID-controlled times ahead and I wish everyone good health, safe swallowing and enjoyable eating!

Jacqui Allen, MD, FRACS ORL HNS
President, Dysphagia Research Society

Other News:

COVID-19 Resource Page. The interdisciplinary COVID-19 Task Force continues to update the COVID-19 Resource Page located on the DRS website . This page is updated every week, so please bookmark it so you can stay up-to-date on research and resources concerning the COVID-19 pandemic.