Health Minister releases training manual on salt reduction for healthcare practitioners

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao on Tuesday released a training manual titled “Addressing Dietary Risk Factors, including Salt Reduction” in the city, underscoring the focus on tackling preventable non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The manual has been prepared to strengthen the capacity of healthcare workers across Karnataka, with particular emphasis on reducing excessive salt consumption— a major dietary risk factor linked to hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and kidney disorders.

Officials said unhealthy dietary habits, including high intake of salt, sugar and fats, are contributing significantly to the growing burden of NCDs in the State. Many of these conditions are preventable through early and sustained interventions, especially by promoting informed food choices at the household level.

NCD programme

The initiative is aligned with the objectives of the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke, which calls for stronger preventive strategies and lifestyle modification to reduce disease burden.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rao said heart disease, diabetes, stroke and kidney ailments are placing increasing pressure not only on individuals and families but also on the public health system. “Several of these illnesses can be prevented if we address unhealthy dietary practices in time,” he said, pointing out that excessive salt consumption remains a key concern.

He noted that food habits often take root early in life and continue due to lack of awareness and structured guidance.

Healthy Karnataka

The Minister said the government’s vision of a “Healthy Karnataka” rests on prevention, early action and people-centred care. In this effort, healthcare professionals — including doctors, nurses, counsellors and frontline workers — play a crucial role as they interact with communities on a daily basis and influence health-related behaviour.

To support them, the manual offers practical, evidence-based guidance that can be applied across primary, secondary and tertiary levels of care. It provides clear information on healthy diets, recommended salt intake, the risks associated with high sodium consumption, and actionable strategies to reduce salt use at the household and community levels. It also integrates structured dietary counselling into routine health services.

Mr. Rao expressed confidence that systematic use of the manual in training and regular service delivery would enhance community awareness, encourage healthier food practices and help prevent avoidable complications arising from NCDs.