JOURNAL WEEK 6

Eating less salt saves lives, but many people in the WHO European Region find it difficult to change their diets. On the occasion of Salt Awareness Week 2021, WHO/Europe shares the experience of Dr Joana Ferreira, who is helping her patients in Portugal find healthier alternatives for processed or traditional foods to reduce their salt intake.

Reducing salt in our diets is a vital step in reducing the risk of developing raised blood pressure; associated cardiovascular diseases such as stroke, heart failure and heart disease; and chronic kidney disease.

Health workers can play a critical role by educating patients and raising awareness of the dangers of excessive salt consumption. Clear guidance can empower people to take control and reduce salt in their diets by changing their salt-adding behaviours and choosing less salty foods.

A core priority of the European Programme of Work 2020–2025 – “United Action for Better Health in Europe” is ensuring health and well-being for all at all ages, which is supported by lower salt consumption.

My experience when using these vocabularies in daily life is quite difficult. A lot of vocabulary is difficult to pronounce correctly. Sometimes I forget a little how to pronounce the vocabulary correctly. But over time I was able to pronounce it correctly and remember what it meant.