There is compelling evidence that dietary salt intake is the major cause of raised blood pressure
(BP) and that a reduction in salt intake from the current level of ≈ 9–12 g/day in most
countries to the recommended level of < 5 g/day lowers BP. A further reduction to 3–4 g/day
has a greater effect and there needs to be ongoing consideration of lower targets for population
salt intake. Cohort studies and outcome trials have demonstrated that a lower salt intake
is related to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Salt reduction is one of the most costeffective
measures to improve public health worldwide. In the Americas, a salt intake of > 9 g/
day is highly prevalent. Sources of salt in the diet vary hugely among countries; in developed
countries, 75% of salt comes from processed foods, whereas in developing countries such as
parts of Brazil, 70% comes from salt added during cooking or at the table. To reduce population
salt intake, the food industry needs to implement a gradual and sustained reduction in the
amount of salt added to foods in developed countries. In developing countries, a public health
campaign plays a more important role in encouraging consumers to use less salt coupled with
widespread replacement of salt with substitutes that are low in sodium and high in potassium.
Numerous countries in the Americas have started salt reduction programs. The challenge
now is to engage other countries. A reduction in population salt intake will result in a major
improvement in public health along with major health-related cost savings.