Sapiens Health Foundation and IIT Madras’s Department of Medical Sciences and Technology, on June 30, conducted a workshop on capacity building for medical professionals and physicians in salt reduction and low-salt substitutes.
The workshop was a collaborative effort between Sapiens Health Foundation, the Department of Medical Sciences and Technology at IIT Madras, the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine (government of Tamil Nadu), and Resolve to Save Lives (RTSL), a New York-based NGO. The event is intended to boost the collective fight against high salt consumption.
Dr Rajan Ravichandran, Chairman of the Sapiens Health Foundation and Professor of Practice at IIT Madras, underscored the importance of labelling and statutory guidelines on salt/sodium contents in packaged foods, a key area of focus for all the stakeholders involved.
Dr T.S. Selvavinayagam, Director, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Government of Tamil Nadu, was the chief guest of the event. Emphasizing Tamilnadu government’s commitment to preventing non-communicable diseases, he said, “Non-communicable diseases account for nearly 65% of the fatalities/mortalities. To address this epidemic, we need to address the ‘risk factors’ that are modifiable, such as salt, sugar and related items. Reducing salt intake is among the most cost-effective strategies.”
Dr T.S. Selva Vinayagam added, “This is no more a medical challenge but a ‘commercial determinant’. The consumption of processed food is increasing due to lifestyle modifications and an instant attraction to fast foods leading to overconsumption that results in complications like mortalities. The industry is searching for a new customer through children. We need to break this down at different levels to bring down the NCD Problem. We have more ultra high-density products that are available resulting in children getting addicted due to the easy availability and convenience. This we need to address through people like you (Doctors).”
On this occasion, a manual on salt guidelines for physicians was released.
Dr. Amit Shah, Director, Resolve to Save Lives (RTSL), highlighted the global movement for reduced salt intake, which has gained momentum, and appealed to the medical fraternity to prioritise salt intake when treating patients.
During the workshop, several medical experts from different parts of the country shared their insights on various aspects of salt and its relationship to blood vessels, heart, kidneys and bones, among others.
The workshop concluded with inspiring remarks and a vote of thanks by R.Sundar, Trustee of Sapiens Health Foundation, who highlighted the uniqueness of the workshop as a global programme and its potential impact on the nation’s health. He announced the Foundation’s plan to hold similar workshops in Mumbai and Delhi, further bolstering the fight against high salt consumption. This commitment to action should inspire all the stakeholders to continue their efforts in salt reduction.
