A first STEP for Iran to measure national salt intake

A preliminary indication of national salt intake levels in Iran was gained through the 2016 WHO STEPwise survey conducted on a nationally representative survey, which included collection of spot urine samples (n= 18,624).

Rezaei S et al reported on these findings, publishing in the Journal of Hypertension in July 2018. Mean salt intake was 9.52 g/day, higher for rural compared to urban residents. Further, 98% of the population consumed at or above the WHO recommended daily maximum of 5g of salt, and 41% consumed at least double the recommendation.

Authors concluded that these findings illustrate the need for a multi-component salt reduction strategy in Iran. Read more here.