A WHO study indicates that if Indians cut salt intake to below 5 grams daily, around 300,000 deaths from cardiovascular and kidney diseases could be prevented over ten years. Currently, the average salt intake in India is 11 grams, double the WHO recommendation. The study emphasizes the need for a sodium reduction strategy to tackle rising health risks associated with high salt consumption.
According to a WHO modeling study, if Indians reduce their salt intake to below 5 grams per day, around 300,000 deaths from cardiovascular and chronic kidney diseases could be prevented over the next decade. The study, published in The Lancet Public Health, suggests this could result in 1.7 million fewer CVD incidents, 700,000 new CKD cases, and savings of $800 million within ten years. Currently, the average salt consumption in India is about 11 grams daily, which is double the WHO recommendation. The research analyzed the impact of changing dietary sodium intake, initially focusing on 25-year-olds as test subjects in 2019. Over ten years, the predicted reduction in sodium intake would be about 138 mg per day for women and 184 mg for men. This shift translates to a 21% decrease for women and a 19% reduction for men in sodium levels from packaged foods, with total intake reductions of 5% and 6%, respectively. The WHO aims to reduce global sodium intake by 30% by 2025 as part of its broader initiatives against non-communicable diseases. Notably, discretionary salt use remains the largest contributor to sodium intake in India, accounting for over 80% in the past. However, increased consumption of packaged foods has been observed in a rapidly changing nutritional landscape, predicted to almost triple the market for high-sodium ready-to-eat products in just a few years. Processed foods and seasonings also significantly add to sodium levels in diets. Despite these worrisome trends, the report indicates a lack of a national sodium reduction strategy in India. To support countries in setting sodium reduction goals, the WHO released benchmarks for 58 food groups in 2021. High sodium intake is now identified as a leading dietary risk factor for death and disability. Leading cardiologist Prof. K Srinath Reddy notes that excessive sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure and higher risks of heart-related issues and kidney dysfunction. He emphasizes the need for a balanced diet that includes potassium-rich foods to counteract high sodium levels.
In recent years, the conversation on health has spotlighted the dangers of high sodium consumption, particularly its role in precipitating heart attacks and kidney disease. The WHO’s call for reduced salt intake is rooted in a growing body of evidence that links excess sodium to significant health risks. By understanding dietary habits, especially in developing countries like India, more effective public health strategies can be devised, leading to improved outcomes in non-communicable diseases and overall health costs.
The findings from the WHO study underscore the urgent need for change in dietary habits concerning salt consumption in India. By adhering to the WHO’s recommended salt intake, a substantial number of cardiovascular and kidney-related deaths could be avoided effectively. Consequently, implementing national sodium reduction strategies becomes crucial for public health, with potential economic benefits entwined with the health gains.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
