Application of the odor Stick identification test for Japanese (OSIT-J) in preschool Children: A study on odor identification and developmental correlations

This study aimed to evaluate the applicability of the Odor Stick Identification Test for the Japanese (OSIT-J) among preschool children aged 4–6. The study sought to determine whether the OSIT-J, originally designed for adults, can effectively assess olfactory identification in young children, and explore its correlation with developmental factors. This observational study included 84 preschool children who took the OSIT-J and vocabulary tests. A developmental and daily contact experience questionnaire was administered to the parents. The OSIT-J included 12 odors that Japanese adults were familiar with, while children were asked to identify these odors using four alternatives. The vocabulary test assessed children's understanding of the terms used in the OSIT-J. Children's ability to identify odors was found to improve with age, particularly among girls. Significant correlations were observed between OSIT-J and developmental test scores (total, social, and language) and vocabulary test scores. However, no correlation was observed between daily contact experience and social communication questionnaire scores. The children easily identified certain odors, such as curry and Japanese orange. The OSIT-J could serve as a promising tool to assess the olfactory identification abilities of preschool children. The study highlights the role of vocabulary and social interactions in odor identification. This indicates the utility of also considering social and language development when difficulties with odor identification are observed in the preschool years. Future research should validate the effectiveness of this test in detecting olfactory disorders and explore its use in diverse populations.