Inaugural lecture Prof. dr. Laura Baijens

"The Art of Swallowing"

Being able to eat well and enjoy food is a fundamental human need. Individuals with swallowing disorders experience difficulties in transporting food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach, which can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, choking, and an increased risk of severe respiratory infections.

Swallowing disorders are common and may result from neurological conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or dementia, as well as from head and neck cancer or age-related deterioration. Diagnosis involves physical examinations, mealtime observations, and imaging-based swallowing assessments. Treatment options range from dietary modifications and speech therapy to, in some cases, surgical interventions. Despite the significant impact of swallowing disorders, they are often underdiagnosed and undertreated.

To effectively manage these disorders, it is crucial to understand the underlying causes, nature, and severity of physiological abnormalities in swallowing. In my lecture, I will explore the essence of this field: what it entails, its broader significance—including its relevance to you—and its evolution from the inception of our research to the current state of our scientific care pathway. I will also discuss future challenges and opportunities in advancing swallowing disorder management.

Click here for the live stream.