ABSTRACT
Hypertension is a common medical condition; its prevalence increases with age. It is one of the most important risk factors for cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of mortality. High salt intake is associated with high blood pressure. The incidence of hypertension is higher in salt-sensitive individuals. Evidence shows that reduced sodium intake lowers blood pressure and can prevent hypertension. Urinary sodium excretion was used as measure of sodium intake, which equals urinary excretion under normal circumstances. The relationship between salt intake and renal ability to excrete sodium has suggested being a major importance for the long-term blood pressure treatment especially in essential hypertension. In the present study there was increased 24 hour sodium excretion in essential hypertensives indicating a high intake of sodium, which may be the cause for hypertension. Patients with high sodium excretion, who are salt sensitive hypertensives will respond to diuretics, when compared to others. The long term reduction in salt intake may significantly reduce the prevalence of hypertension and thereby decrease the associated morbidity and mortality.