Salt reduction interventions in Pacific Island countries

The World Health Organization (WHO) has been supporting the development of salt reduction strategies in the Pacific Islands countries (PICs) where an increased reliance on processed foods is likely contributing to the rise in the observed incidence and prevalence of NCDs.

However, while the limited information available suggests high levels of salt intake in many PICs, more detailed country-specific information and support from government and industry is needed to design and implement cost-effective and practical salt reduction strategies.

The award

The Cost-effectiveness of salt reduction interventions in Pacific Islands study was funded by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) through the GACD hypertension programme (2012 to 2015; AUS$1.05m).

The project aimed to accurately determine the baseline level of salt intake and evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of salt reduction interventions to reduce salt intake in the PICs.

The study was implemented in Fiji and Samoa. It was led by Prof Jacqui Webster, The George Institute for Global Health in Australia. The study team delivered the project in close collaboration with WHO and ministries of health in Fiji and Samoa.

Key findings

The project has resulted in significant policy changes. The research team worked with the Government in Samoa to amend the Food Act, introducing labelling of salt content and mandatory limits for salt content. In Fiji salt reduction efforts were mainstreamed into government policies, including through voluntary salt targets and salt education as part of national NCD or nutrition strategies.

Longer term monitoring of impacts of the study is planned through future WHO STEPwise approach to NCD Risk Factor Surveillance (STEP) surveys, an internationally comparable, standardised, and integrated surveillance tool through which countries can collect, analyse, and disseminate core information on NCDs.

Full case study: Salt reduction interventions in Pacific Island countries