RESUMEN
Background: The high burden of noncommunicable diseases [NCDs], particularly cardiovascular diseases [CVDs], in countries of the Eastern Mediterranean Region requires an immediate public health attention. The World Health Organization [WHO] has recommended salt reduction as a best buy, recognizing it as one of the most costeffective approaches in preventing NCDs and reducing CVDs and medical costs.
Aims: In the context of the global target to reduce salt intake by 30% by 2025, the objective of this review is to present an up-to-date overview of the current salt reduction initiatives in the Region by highlighting regional and national policies, strategies, and activities that aim at characterizing and/or reducing the intakes of dietary salt.
Methods: This review details the WHO policies and strategies which address salt reduction in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region.
Results: The high intake levels of sodium in the countries of the Region are emphasized. The policies and strategies in place to address this situation are described, however, there is a need for more data on intake levels.
Conclusions: There are a number of salt reduction initiatives currently being undertaken in the countries of the Region. The WHO should continue to play a key role in providing evidence-based tools for the planning, implementation, and surveillance of national salt reduction initiatives