Deaths Due To Increased Salt Intake, Six Times Higher Than Road Accident Deaths In Australia

Australians, particularly those living in Victoria, who die due to increased salt intake is about six times the number of individuals killed in road-related accidents. This was suggested after a new study from VicHealth discovered that the average annual salt consumption of Victorians is approximately 15,000 tones. This equates to almost twice the ideal salt intake.

"Almost one in 20 deaths in Victoria is attributable to high salt intake - that's six times the annual road toll," said Jerril Hechter, VicHealth CEO. "In particular, children, who generally need less salt than adults, are eating far too much salt, and this can lead to a lifetime of health risks." The findings of the study suggests that Victorians may have a high risk of developing high blood pressure, which is also associated with mortalities due to all stroke types, heart diseases and chronic kidney diseases, Rechter added.

Rechter said VicHealth is looking at increasing the awareness of Victorians regarding their actual amount of salt intake through their new campaign. The bulk of salt content in the diet of Australians are mostly derived from additional salt coming from processed food, such as cereals, breads, processed meat and instant sauces, Rechter said. However, most consumers are likely unaware of how much salt they are ingesting.

The World Health Organisation, or WHO had set the recommended target of salt intake all around the world to prevent non-communicable diseases. Australia had expressed their intent to comply to the said recommendation of decreasing salt intake consumption by up to 30 percent come 2025. The Collaborating Centre on Population Salt Reduction department of WHO thinks that a 30 percent reduction in the salt intake of Victorians can result in 800 lives spared and approximately million medical costs saved.

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