ICMR Initiates Study on High Salt Intake and Chronic Disease Risks in India

India is grappling with a pressing public health crisis as excessive salt consumption among its urban population has been linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases such as hypertension, stroke, and heart disease. In response to this alarming trend, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has launched a comprehensive community study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of low-sodium salt substitutes in reducing sodium intake and improving cardiovascular health.

According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), the recommended daily salt intake for adults is no more than 5 grams. However, recent findings from the National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE) indicate that urban Indians consume an average of 9.2 grams of salt per day, nearly double the WHO recommendation. In contrast, rural residents consume approximately 5.6 grams, which is still above the advisable limit. Dr. Sharan Murali, a senior scientist at NIE and principal investigator of the study, emphasized the importance of addressing this public health issue. "Lesser sodium consumption helps reduce blood pressure and improves overall heart health, making low-sodium alternatives a meaningful switch, especially for those with hypertension," he stated.

The NIE's initiative involves a three-year intervention project taking place in Punjab and Telangana, supported by ICMR. The project aims to implement structured salt reduction counseling delivered by health workers at Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs). Dr. Ganesh Kumar, another senior scientist involved in the research, explained that the first year focuses on baseline assessments and field preparations, with efforts to co-create intervention materials alongside community health workers. This participatory approach aims to ensure that health education is not just delivered but also tailored to community needs.

In preparation for the project, NIE conducted a market survey across 300 retail outlets in Chennai to evaluate the availability and pricing of low-sodium salt (LSS). The survey revealed that low-sodium salt was only available in 28% of the surveyed outlets, with a notable disparity between supermarkets (52% availability) and small grocery stores (4%). Price comparisons showed that LSS is significantly more expensive, averaging Rs 5.6 per 100 grams, compared to Rs 2.7 for regular iodized salt. Dr. Murali pointed out that the limited availability of LSS reflects a critical supply-demand disconnect, which may stem from a lack of awareness regarding its health benefits.

To combat this issue, the NIE has launched the #PinchForAChange campaign on social media platforms, aiming to raise awareness about hidden salt sources and promote low-sodium alternatives. The campaign utilizes infographics and simple messaging to empower individuals to make healthier dietary choices.

Experts believe that if the project succeeds, it could lead to the integration of sustainable dietary counseling models into India's public health system. Dr. Murali remarked, "This is not just about reducing salt; it's about restoring balance in our diets, our systems, and our hearts. Together, one pinch at a time, we can create lasting change."

The findings and ongoing initiatives underscore the urgent need for public health strategies focused on dietary improvements to mitigate the burden of salt-related health issues in India. As the project progresses, its outcomes could provide valuable insights into effective community health interventions that promote better nutritional practices, ultimately contributing to a healthier population.