Salt-Smart Americas. A Guide for Country-Level Action

Abstract

[Preface]. The Region of the Americas has taken on the challenge of addressing noncommunicable diseases. These diseases are the leading causes of death in every country of the Region. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is the primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and greatly contributes to CVD attributable deaths in the Americas. Salt reduction is recognized as the most cost-effective intervention in the population-based prevention of hypertension. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) initiative “Cardiovascular Disease Prevention through Population-wide Dietary Salt Reduction” supports the countries of the Americas by providing effective tools, strategies, and interventions to reduce sodium intake levels among all people in the Region... Despite the Region’s successes, PAHO recognizes that complex issues remain that will require our careful and sustained attention. We will continue to develop and tailor technical expertise that addresses country needs for the creation or expansion of national action, as well as to catalyze and stimulate nongovernmental organizations, civil society, the private sector, and international agencies to meaningfully participate in and contribute to reducing salt overconsumption at the regionwide level.