Intersalt study

Intersalt Study is a large epidemiological study conducted to investigate the relationship between sodium intake, as measured by urinary sodium excretion, and blood pressure across different populations. The study was conducted in the late 1980s and involved 52 centers in 32 countries, with over 10,000 participants.

Background

The Intersalt Study was initiated in response to the growing evidence of a link between high sodium intake and high blood pressure, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The study aimed to provide more definitive evidence on this relationship and to explore the potential benefits of reducing sodium intake at the population level.

Methodology

The study used a cross-sectional design, with each center recruiting a random sample of adults aged 20-59 years. Participants were asked to provide 24-hour urine samples, which were used to estimate their sodium intake. Blood pressure was measured using standard methods. Data were collected on a range of other variables, including age, sex, body mass index (BMI), alcohol consumption, and dietary intake of potassium and other nutrients.

Findings

The main findings of the Intersalt Study were that there was a significant positive association between sodium intake and blood pressure, both within and between populations. This association was stronger in older people, in people with higher BMI, and in people with higher initial blood pressure. The study also found that a lower sodium intake was associated with a smaller rise in blood pressure with age.

Implications

The findings of the Intersalt Study have had a major impact on public health policy and practice. They have provided strong evidence to support the recommendation for reduced sodium intake as a means of preventing high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. However, the study has also been the subject of controversy, with some researchers questioning the validity of its findings and the appropriateness of its recommendations.

See also

• Sodium
• Blood pressure
• Cardiovascular disease
• Epidemiology

References

Intersalt study Resources
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