A silent epidemic is sweeping across India, fueled by excessive salt consumption, according to scientists at the Indian Council of Medical Research's (ICMR) National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE). This alarming trend is placing a significant portion of the population at increased risk of hypertension, stroke, heart disease, and kidney disorders.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a daily salt intake of less than 5 grams per person. However, studies reveal that urban Indians consume approximately 9.2 grams of salt daily, while rural areas average around 5.6 grams. Both figures exceed the recommended limit, highlighting a widespread problem.
In response to this growing health crisis, ICMR-NIE has initiated a community-led salt reduction study. This three-year intervention project, currently underway in Punjab and Telangana, aims to evaluate the effectiveness of structured salt reduction counseling delivered by health workers at Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs). The project is supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Researchers aim to reduce blood pressure and sodium intake among individuals with hypertension.
One promising strategy being explored is the use of low-sodium salt (LSS) substitutes. These substitutes partially replace sodium chloride with potassium or magnesium salts. Sharan Murali, a senior scientist at NIE and principal investigator of the study, suggests that "lesser sodium consumption helps reduce blood pressure and improves overall heart health, making low-sodium alternatives a meaningful switch, especially for those with hypertension". Dr. Murali also noted that "just switching to low-sodium salt can lower blood pressure by 7/4 mmHg on average – a small change with a big impact".
To ensure the success of salt reduction interventions, the NIE conducted a market survey across 300 retail outlets in Chennai to assess the availability and pricing of LSS. The survey revealed that LSS was available in only 28% of the retail outlets. While 52% of supermarkets stocked LSS, only 4% of small grocery shops did. Furthermore, the average price of LSS was Rs 5.6 per 100g, more than twice the price of regular iodized salt, which costs Rs 2.7 per 100g. Dr. Murali observed that the lower demand for low sodium salt might be leading to its lower availability, indicating a need to improve awareness and access.
In addition to community-level interventions, ICMR-NIE has launched a digital campaign called #PinchForAChange on LinkedIn and Twitter. The campaign uses infographics, evidence, and easy-to-understand messages to raise awareness about hidden salt sources, encourage dietary swaps, and promote healthier choices. Dr. Murali hopes that this project could lead to the integration of sustainable dietary counseling models into the existing public health system if it is successful.
Dr. Ganesh Kumar, another senior scientist at NIE involved in the project, stated that the first year of the project is focused on baseline assessments and field preparations. By addressing the issue of high salt consumption through community-led initiatives, the promotion of low-sodium alternatives, and public awareness campaigns, ICMR-NIE aims to curb this silent epidemic and improve the overall health of the Indian population.
