People who lose their sense of smell in middle or older age risk dying early, a new study suggests.

Although previous research has shown a link between Alzheimer’s disease and a diminished sense of smell, it is the first time is has been shown to impact the chance of death for everyone.

Scientists from Stockholm University followed 1,774 Swedes aged between 40 and 90 for 10 years. At the beginning of the study they were asked to take a test to identify 13 different odours.

Researchers found that their chance of death was linked to how well they scored on the test. Each wrong answer increased their risk of dying over the study period by eight per cent.

The results contribute to the growing evidence that smell testing gives a valuable window into the health of the brain as it ages.