Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 28: Experts emphasized that lowering salt intake is a highly effective and affordable way to improve public health, as salt consumption in India currently surpasses safe levels, significantly contributing to the growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

At "The Salt Fight 2025: Say NO to Na" workshop, organized by the Delhi Medical Association (DMA) and other organizations, doctors and public health leaders called for robust physician-led campaigns, the reformulation of processed foods, and enhanced consumer education to address India's escalating salt crisis.

Dr. Vinod Kumar Paul, Member of NITI Aayog, speaking at the event held in the national capital, stressed the critical need to address modifiable risk factors like excessive salt intake to reverse the country's NCD burden, which accounts for nearly 65 per cent of all deaths.

"Reducing salt intake may seem simple, but it is among the most cost-effective strategies available. It is not enough to know the risks -- we must focus on what works. Practical campaigns and evidence-based solutions must be scaled urgently," he asserted.

Furthermore, citing global research, Dr. Paul noted that a 30 per cent reduction in salt intake could lead to at least a 25 per cent decrease in hypertension prevalence, thereby helping to prevent NCDs such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease.

According to available health data, the average salt consumption in India is approximately 11 grams per day, significantly exceeding the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended limit of 5 grams. Excess salt is often consumed unknowingly through processed foods, restaurant meals, and packaged snacks.

Dr Girish Tyagi, President of the Delhi Medical Association, emphasized the crucial role of physicians in making salt reduction an integral part of routine clinical practice.

"Salt reduction should not be a footnote during patient consultations. It must be central to our health advice, encouraging low-sodium options and greater awareness about hidden sources of salt," he stated.

Dr. Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services, New Delhi, linked excessive salt intake to broader issues within modern lifestyles.

"Processed foods, refined oils, and excessive salt are slowly harming us. Even medicines and injectable products may contain sodium. Reducing salt intake by even 2 grams a day has the potential to protect millions," he explained.

The experts also discussed the importance of food industry reformulations to reduce salt content, mandatory front-of-pack salt labeling to empower consumers, taxation on high-salt foods to discourage consumption, and the promotion of low-salt recipes that do not compromise taste.

The consensus among the experts was a call to action for physicians, policymakers, and the food industry to collaborate in fostering a low-salt culture across India, ultimately aiming to curb the rising tide of preventable diseases.