Swallowing Awareness Day 2026
Swallowing Awareness Day – 18 March
Swallowing is something most of us rarely think about. Yet this complex process happens hundreds of times each day as we eat, drink, and swallow saliva.
What is Dysphagia (Swallowing Difficulty)?
For some people, swallowing becomes difficult. The medical term for this is dysphagia.
Dysphagia can occur when changes affecting the brain, nerves, muscles, or structures involved in swallowing interfere with the safe movement of food and drink from the mouth to the stomach. When swallowing becomes unsafe, food or drink may enter the airway instead, which can increase the risk of coughing, choking, chest infections, dehydration, or weight loss.
How Common Are Swallowing Difficulties?
Swallowing difficulties are more common than many people realise. For example:
Around 42% of people who have had a stroke experience dysphagia
Approximately 50% of people with Parkinson’s disease develop swallowing difficulties
Swallowing changes occur in up to 85% of people living with dementia
How Speech Pathologists Help With Dysphagia
Speech pathologists play an important role in supporting safe and meaningful eating and drinking. Support may include:
assessment of swallowing safety
strategies to make swallowing safer
recommendations about food and drink textures
rehabilitation exercises when appropriate
collaboration with dietitians, doctors, and other health professionals.
Download the Swallowing Information Sheet
