The Pan American Health Organization and the Institute of Nutrition of Central America and Panama (INCAP), in collaboration with the Belize Ministry of Health, observed World Hypertension Day on 17 May 2018.
Hypertension is the main risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease. Each year 1.6 million deaths occur from cardiovascular disease in the region of the Americas. Half a million occur in people under age 70 and are considered premature and preventable deaths.
Hypertension affects between 20-40% of the adult population of the region, meaning that in the Americas around 250 million people suffer from high blood pressure. Hypertension is preventable or can be postponed by a group of preventive interventions, among which is the reduction of salt intake, the inclusion of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercise and maintaining a healthy body weight.
A forum was held to promote the preparation of food using less sodium/salt. Street food vendors of Belize City were the target audience. Presentations on the implications of hypertension on public health and the importance of a balanced diet were shared by professionals of the Country Office and the Ministry of Health. Professional chefs did practical demonstrations on how to prepare food using less salt and substituting natural herbs/spices.
Emphasis was placed on the excessive consumption of salt as it relates directly to high blood pressure, an important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, heart problems, strokes and kidney problems, all of which conform to the leading causes of deaths globally. Certified Chef Eva Longsworth told the participants, "Our goal as cooks is not only to feed people but also to nourish them by offering them healthy options that include vegetarian, and foods low in salt and sugar." She encouraged them to use fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices from the local markets while avoiding the salt-laden, off-the-shelf condiments. She was accompanied by certified Chef Edan Reyes.
PAHO and INCAP will continue the efforts to increase public awareness on the need to reduce sodium/salt consumption.
