SAHS Endorses the World Hypertension League-International Society of Hypertension’s Sodium Policy Published on 11th November, 2013
7 November 2013
Dr Norm Campbell Dr Ernesto Schiffrin
President President
World Hypertension League International Society of Hypertension
Dear Drs Campbell and Schiffrin,
RE: ENDORSEMENT OF WHL-ISH SODIUM POLICY STATEMENT
The Southern African Hypertension Society endorses the sodium policy statement of the World
Hypertension League (WHL) and the International Society for Hypertension (ISH).
We would like to highlight that South Africa’s Minister of Health has already announced regulation
to reduce salt in those foods that contribute to most of the salt intake in the country (for example,
bread). The regulation calls for a stepwise reduction of salt in these food industry products initially
by 2016 with the optimal level reached by 2019.
In addition, the South African government has requested the Heart and Stroke Foundation of South
Africa to coordinate a public awareness campaign to move to lower salt usage in food preparation
and at the table. This is necessary as the discretionary salt intake in South Africa is about 35%.
Consequently, we need both regulations for the food industry and a public education programme.
South Africa is the first country to pass these regulations.
In light of the above, the policy statement is in line with the Southern African Hypertension Society’s
policy and the Board of Directors supports WHL-ISH’s efforts by making this international statement.
Yours sincerely,
Prof Brian Rayner
President
