Urgent Need to Lower Salt Consumption to Combat Hypertension and Chronic Kidney Disease

Hypertension and Chronic kidney disease (CKD) are growing public health threats, yet most individuals remain unaware of their conditions. Experts highlight that a majority of people with hypertension are either undiagnosed or, if diagnosed, inadequately controlled. Similarly, CKD remains silent in its early stages, with most patients unaware until the disease has progressed significantly.

Alarmingly, over 70% of individuals with CKD also suffer from hypertension, creating a dangerous cycle that often leads to severe health complications. Current dietary habits, particularly high salt intake through processed foods, pickles, and traditional accompaniments like papad, are major contributors to worsening hypertension and kidney disease.

Kidney Health Foundation for Experts Networking

In response to this escalating crisis, a Workshop on Capacity Building of Physicians on Salt Reduction and Low Sodium Salt Substitutes was organised today at the DMA Conference Hall, Darya Ganj, New Delhi. Conducted by the Sapiens Health Foundation in partnership with Resolve to Save Lives, the Delhi Medical Association, and the Kidney Support Network, the workshop brought together leading experts from across the country.

Awareness On Hypertension and CKD

The workshop emphasised that there is an urgent need for public awareness on hypertension and Chronic Kidney Disease.

Strategies to reduce salt intake, both visible and hidden, in daily diets. The role of low-sodium salt substitutes in improving population health outcomes. Encouraging households to reduce salt added during cooking is an effective first step toward better heart and kidney health.

Doctor’s Perspective On CKD

Dr. Rajan Ravichandran, Dr. Vijay Kher (Chairman, Epitome Hospitals), and Dr. Girish Tyagi welcomed participants. While special addresses delivered by Dr. Vinod Kumar Paul (NITI Aayog) and Dr. Atul Goel (Director General of Health Services). Scientific sessions provided practical strategies for salt reduction and addressed modifiable risk factors for non-communicable diseases.

The panel discussion included eminent speakers such as Dr. Ajay Kher, Medical Director, Epitome Hospitals. Who reinforced the importance of physician-driven initiatives to encourage salt reduction at both the community and clinical levels.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Vijay Kher* said, “We must act now to raise awareness and promote simple, effective changes like reducing salt in our diets. Hidden salts in processed foods are a major culprit and must be addressed. Equally important is cutting down the amount of salt used in everyday cooking at home.