Vietnamese medical associations sign consensus statement on sodium reduction

The George Institute for Global Health supported a panel discussion at the 2026 National Stroke Conference in Ha Noi, where four leading Vietnamese medical and nutrition associations signed a consensus statement on sodium reduction, increased potassium intake, salt iodisation and front-of-pack nutrition labelling for the prevention of cardiovascular disease and stroke. The statement calls for evidence-based action to reduce excessive salt consumption in Viet Nam, where average intake remains nearly double the World Health Organization's recommended level.

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Strong evidence shows that replacing regular salt with potassium-enriched, low-sodium salt lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of stroke and premature death. For Viet Nam, making this simple switch widely available and affordable, with clear guidance on who can safely use it, could help prevent many avoidable deaths.

By:

Professor Bruce Neal

Senior Professorial Fellow, The George Institute for Global Health

Read the joint media release here.