Salt reduction initiatives in Africa: A systematic review

Published in the Journal of Clinical Hypertension, Tekle et al conducted a systematic review to document salt consumption patterns, the implementation status and potential impact of salt reduction initiatives in Africa. From 38 studies included, the review found that the mean estimated salt intake in African adults ranged from 6.8 g/day to 11.3 g/day. Salt levels in foods were high, and consumer knowledge of the adverse health effects of excess salt consumption was high, though low importance was placed on salt reduction behaviours. Evaluation of a mass media campaign in South Africa was found to be effective to change consumer behaviours to control salt intake. Modelling studies of different salt reduction interventions estimated that they would be cost-effective. Read more here.