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Dec 9, 2025
Reduce salt intake, experts warn of rising hypertension, kidney failure
Punch Newspapers
Stakeholders on Saturday urged Nigerians to reduce their salt consumption, warning that rising rates of hypertension, kidney failure, and heart disease are linked to excessive sodium intake.
They made the call during a public sensitisation campaign in Abuja, part of a three-day national salt-reduction outreach aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of excessive sodium consumption.
The initiative, organised by the Centre for Communication and Social Impact, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the global health organisation Resolve to Save Lives, sought to educate citizens on healthier eating habits and the long-term risks of high salt intake.
Operating under the theme "Let Your Health Guide Your Taste," the campaign reached major markets and public areas across the Federal Capital Territory to engage shoppers, food vendors, and households directly.
The World Health Organisation warns that consuming more than the recommended five grams of salt per day significantly increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage, making sodium reduction one of the most effective strategies for preventing premature deaths globally.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Abah Ochigbo of the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital warned of alarming spikes in cardiovascular diseases among Nigerians aged 20 to 40.
Abah linked the trend to westernised diets, fast food, processed meals high in sodium, and the growing culture of adding raw table salt to cooked food.
He also associated excess salt intake with osteoporosis, joint pain, body swelling, and fluid retention that damages the kidneys.
"Before now, hypertension and heart failure were rare among young people. But we are now seeing hypertensive heart disease, kidney failure, and even ventricular heart failure in people who should be in their most productive years.
"We don't have enough doctors, nurses, hospitals, or consumables.
"Curative care is extremely ex
