Effect of salt substitution on community-wide blood pressure and hypertension incidence

Cardiovascular Dynamics in HIV: The Influence of Adrenal Function and Nutritional Status

This interdisciplinary review explores the intricate nexus between HIV infection, nutrition, adrenal gland function, and cardiovascular health, highlighting a critical aspect of HIV management often overlooked in current literature. With the advent of antiretroviral therapy, the life expectancy of people living with HIV has dramatically improved, transforming HIV into a manageable chronic condition. However, this success brings forth new challenges, notably an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases among people living with HIV. We examine the normal physiology of the adrenal gland, including its role in mineral metabolism, a crucial facet of nutrition. We discuss the evolution of knowledge tying adrenal pathology to cardiovascular disease. We explore the impact of HIV on adrenal gland findings from a gross pathology perspective, as well as the clinical impact of adrenal insufficiency in HIV. The review further elucidates the role of nutrition in this context, considering the double burden of undernutrition and obesity prevalent in regions heavily affected by HIV. By aggregating findings from longitudinal studies and recent clinical trials, the review presents compelling evidence of increased cardiovascular disease among people living with HIV compared with people without HIV. It highlights the critical role of the adrenal glands in regulating nutrient metabolism and its implications for cardiovascular health, drawing attention to the potential for dietary interventions and targeted therapies to mitigate these risks. This review urges a paradigm shift in the management of HIV, advocating for a holistic approach that incorporates nutritional assessment and interventions into routine HIV care to address the complex interplay between HIV, adrenal function, and cardiovascular health. Through this lens, we offer insights into novel therapeutic strategies aimed at reducing cardiovascular risk in people living with HIV, contributing to the ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life and longevity in this population.

Long-Term Effect of Salt Substitution for Cardiovascular Outcomes : A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Salt substitution is a simple yet increasingly promising strategy to improve cardiovascular outcomes.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the long-term effects of salt substitution on cardiovascular outcomes.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, and CINAHL searched from inception to 23 August 2023. Trial registries, citation analysis, and hand-search were also done.

STUDY SELECTION

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing provision of or advice to use a salt substitute with no intervention or use of regular salt among adults for 6 months or longer in total study duration.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two authors independently screened articles, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Primary outcomes include mortality, major cardiovascular events (MACE), and adverse events at 6 months or greater. Secondary and post hoc outcomes include blood pressure, cause-specific mortality, and urinary excretion at 6 months or greater. Random-effects meta-analyses were done and certainty of effect estimates were assessed using GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation).

DATA SYNTHESIS

Of the 16 included RCTs, 8 reported on primary outcomes. Most (n = 7 of 8) were done in China or Taiwan, 3 were done in residential facilities, and 7 included populations of older age (average 62 years) and/or with higher-than-average cardiovascular risk. In this population, salt substitute may reduce risk for all-cause mortality (6 RCTs; 27 710 participants; rate ratio [RR], 0.88 [95% CI, 0.82 to 0.93]; low certainty) and cardiovascular mortality (4 RCTs; 25 050 participants; RR, 0.83 [CI, 0.73 to 0.95]; low certainty). Salt substitute may result in a slight reduction in MACE (3 RCTs; 23 215 participants; RR, 0.85 [CI, 0.71 to 1.00]; very low certainty), with very low-certainty evidence of serious adverse events (6 RCTs; 27 995 participants; risk ratio, 1.04 [CI, 0.87 to 1.25]).

LIMITATIONS

The evidence base is dominated by a single, large RCT. Most RCTs were from China or Taiwan and involved participants with higher-than-average cardiovascular risk; therefore, generalizability to other populations is very limited.

CONCLUSION

Salt substitution may reduce all-cause or cardiovascular mortality, but the evidence for reducing cardiovascular events and for not increasing serious adverse events is uncertain, particularly for a Western population. The certainty of evidence is higher among populations at higher cardiovascular risk and/or following a Chinese diet.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE

National Health and Medical Research Council. (PROSPERO: CRD42022327566).

Key hypertension breakthroughs and emerging trends from the AHA's scientific sessions

We aim to summarize selected late-breaking science on hypertension management strategies and disease presented at the 2023 American Heart Association (AHA) conference. The trials discussed below encompass stricter goals of blood pressure management and were expanded into different population groups from different countries with varied socioeconomic backgrounds and settings, collectively advancing our understanding of hypertension treatment and its impact on public health. We summarized the china rural health care project (CRHCP), a four-year study involving over 34,000 participants in rural China, emphasizing the potential of stricter blood pressure goals in lowering the incidence of all-cause dementia and cognitive impairment. Next, we explore the US-based CARDIA-SSBP study, which highlights the impact of dietary sodium on systolic blood pressure in middle-aged individuals. Through a randomized-order cross-over design, the study provides compelling evidence supporting the effectiveness of sodium reduction as a non-pharmacological approach to blood pressure control. The UK-based POP-HT trial offers critical insights into postpartum women with a history of hypertensive pregnancy. The trial emphasizes the benefits of self-monitoring and physician-optimized antihypertensive titration, showcasing significant blood pressure reductions in the intervention group. Furthermore, the KARDIA-1 study introduces us to Zilebesiran, an innovative RNA interference drug. This phase 2 study highlights its potential for achieving sustained blood pressure reductions and its favorable safety profile, marking a significant step forward in hypertension treatment. Lastly, we expand the practical application of the previously conducted landmark SPRINT trial, which showed cardiovascular benefit with intensive SBP control to less than 120 mm Hg in high-risk non-diabetic patients with hypertension compared with routine BP control to <140 mm Hg. The ESPRIT trial and the IMPACTS trial build upon the SPRINT trial, demonstrating the effects of intensive blood pressure lowering in Asian hypertensive patients and in 36 health care clinics in medically underserved states in the US: Louisiana and Mississippi. The IMPACTS trial and the "Hypertension Treatment in Nigeria Program" demonstrate the effectiveness of implementing comprehensive blood pressure control strategies in real-world settings. These studies highlight the feasibility and scalability of such interventions, especially in low-resource environments, and their potential to significantly improve public health outcomes.

Microwave Encounters Ionic Liquid: Synergistic Mechanism, Synthesis and Emerging Applications

Progress in microwave (MW) energy application technology has stimulated remarkable advances in manufacturing and high-quality applications of ionic liquids (ILs) that are generally used as novel media in chemical engineering. This Review focuses on an emerging technology via the combination of MW energy and the usage of ILs, termed microwave-assisted ionic liquid (MAIL) technology. In comparison to conventional routes that rely on heat transfer through media, the contactless and unique MW heating exploits the electromagnetic wave-ions interactions to deliver energy to IL molecules, accelerating the process of material synthesis, catalytic reactions, and so on. In addition to the inherent advantages of ILs, including outstanding solubility, and well-tuned thermophysical properties, MAIL technology has exhibited great potential in process intensification to meet the requirement of efficient, economic chemical production. Here we start with an introduction to principles of MW heating, highlighting fundamental mechanisms of MW induced process intensification based on ILs. Next, the synergies of MW energy and ILs employed in materials synthesis, as well as their merits, are documented. The emerging applications of MAIL technologies are summarized in the next sections, involving tumor therapy, organic catalysis, separations, and bioconversions. Finally, the current challenges and future opportunities of this emerging technology are discussed.

Potassium-Enriched Salt Substitutes: A Review of Recommendations in Clinical Management Guidelines

Excess dietary sodium intake and insufficient dietary potassium intake are both well-established risk factors for hypertension. Despite some successful initiatives, efforts to control hypertension by improving dietary intake have largely failed because the changes required are mostly too hard to implement. Consistent recent data from randomized controlled trials show that potassium-enriched, sodium-reduced salt substitutes are an effective option for improving consumption levels and reducing blood pressure and the rates of cardiovascular events and deaths. Yet, salt substitutes are inconsistently recommended and rarely used. We sought to define the extent to which evidence about the likely benefits and harms of potassium-enriched salt substitutes has been incorporated into clinical management by systematically searching guidelines for the management of hypertension or chronic kidney disease. We found incomplete and inconsistent recommendations about the use of potassium-enriched salt substitutes in the 32 hypertension and 14 kidney guidelines that we reviewed. Discussion among the authors identified the possibility of updating clinical guidelines to provide consistent advice about the use of potassium-enriched salt for hypertension control. Draft wording was chosen to commence debate and progress consensus building: strong recommendation for patients with hypertension-potassium-enriched salt with a composition of 75% sodium chloride and 25% potassium chloride should be recommended to all patients with hypertension, unless they have advanced kidney disease, are using a potassium supplement, are using a potassium-sparing diuretic, or have another contraindication. We strongly encourage clinical guideline bodies to review their recommendations about the use of potassium-enriched salt substitutes at the earliest opportunity.

Modifying Dietary Sodium and Potassium Intake: An End to the 'Salt Wars'?

Excessive salt intake raises blood pressure, but the implications of this observation for human health have remained contentious. It has also been recognized for many years that potassium intake may mitigate the effects of salt intake on blood pressure and possibly on outcomes such as stroke. Recent large randomized intervention trials have provided strong support for the benefits of replacing salt (NaCl) with salt substitute (75% NaCl, 25% KCl) on hard outcomes, including stroke. During the same period of time, major advances have been made in understanding how the body senses and tastes salt, and how these sensations drive intake. Additionally, new insights into the complex interactions between systems that control sodium and potassium excretion by the kidneys, and the brain have highlighted the existence of a potassium switch in the kidney distal nephron. This switch seems to contribute importantly to the blood pressure-lowering effects of potassium intake. In recognition of these evolving data, the United States Food and Drug Administration is moving to permit potassium-containing salt substitutes in food manufacturing. Given that previous attempts to reduce salt consumption have not been successful, this new approach has a chance of improving health and ending the 'Salt Wars'.

Dietary Sodium Reduction Is Best for Reducing Blood Pressure: Controversies in Hypertension

The global burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) continues to grow, as does the incidence of hypertension, one of the most important modifiable risk factors of CVD. Non-pharmacologic, population level interventions are critically needed to halt the hypertension pandemic, but there is an ongoing debate as to whether public policy efforts should focus more on dietary sodium reduction or increasing potassium. In this commentary, we summarize arguments in favor of policy geared towards reduced sodium intake. Recognizing increasing dietary sodium as one of the drivers of the hypertension pandemic is critical to developing public policy to reduce population level sodium exposure and blood pressure. We draw from a robust field of evidence to show that reducing sodium intake improves blood pressure in a linear fashion, across the lifespan, at an individual level and a population level, and may even reduce CVD events. While potassium plays an important role in blood pressure regulation, potassium interventions are less effective at reducing blood pressure, carry risk of hyperkalemia in select populations, and are more logistically challenging. There is an urgent need for nation-wide policies to reduce sodium intake to help stem the hypertension pandemic and prevent CVD.

Salt Sensitivity: Causes, Consequences, and Recent Advances

Salt (sodium chloride) is an essential nutrient required to maintain physiological functions. However, for most people, daily salt intake far exceeds their physiological need and is habitually greater than recommended upper thresholds. Excess salt intake leads to elevation in blood pressure which drives cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Indeed, excessive salt intake is estimated to be responsible for ≈5 million deaths per year globally. For approximately one-third of otherwise healthy individuals (and >50% of those with hypertension), the effect of salt intake on blood pressure elevation is exaggerated; such people are categorized as salt sensitive and salt sensitivity of blood pressure is considered an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and death. The prevalence of salt sensitivity is higher in women than in men and, in both, increases with age. This narrative review considers the foundational concepts of salt sensitivity and the underlying effector systems that cause salt sensitivity. We also consider recent updates in preclinical and clinical research that are revealing new modifying factors that determine the blood pressure response to high salt intake.

Association between dietary patterns and cardiovascular diseases: A review

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), especially atherosclerosis, is the primary cause of global deaths. It accounts for millions of deaths annually. Even a small reduction in CVD through preventive treatment can have a substantial impact. Dietary patterns and substances are strongly linked to chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, heart failure, and type 2 diabetes. An unhealthy diet could lead to traditional risk factors such as LDL levels, TG levels, diabetes, and high blood pressure while accelerating atherosclerosis progression. Recent research has shown the potential of dietary interventions to prevent and treat cardiovascular disease, particularly through healthy dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet or DASH. In 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched a new initiative aimed at enhancing the prevention and control of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by improving the management of CVD in primary care, including the optimization of dietary patterns. Here, this review summarizes several large cohort researches about the effects of dietary patterns on atherosclerosis, refines dietary components, and outlines some typical anti-atherosclerosis dietary agents. Finally, this review discusses recent mechanisms by which dietary interventions affect atherosclerosis progression.

Effect of a Salt Substitute on Incidence of Hypertension and Hypotension Among Normotensive Adults

BACKGROUND

Reports on the effects of salt substitution among individuals with normal blood pressure are scarce and controversial.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to assess the effects of a salt substitute (62.5% NaCl, 25% KCl, and 12.5% flavorings) on incidence of hypertension and hypotension among older adults with normal blood pressure.

METHOD

A post hoc analysis was conducted among older adults with normal blood pressure participating in DECIDE-Salt, a large, multicenter, cluster-randomized trial in 48 elderly care facilities for 2 years. We used the frailty survival model to compare risk of incident hypertension and the generalized linear mixed model to compare risk of hypotension episodes.

RESULTS

Compared with usual salt group (n = 298), the salt substitute group (n = 313) had a lower hypertension incidence (11.7 vs 24.3 per 100 person-years; adjusted HR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.39 to 0.92; P = 0.02) but did not increase incidence of hypotension episodes (9.0 vs 9.7 per 100 person-years; P = 0.76). Mean systolic/diastolic blood pressure did not increase from the baseline to the end of intervention in the salt substitute group (mean changes: -0.3 ± 11.9/0.2 ± 7.1 mm Hg) but increased in the usual salt group (7.0 ± 14.3/2.1 ± 7.5 mm Hg), resulting in a net reduction of -8.0 mm Hg (95% CI: -12.4 to -3.7 mm Hg) in systolic and -2.0 mm Hg (95% CI: -4.1 to 0.1 mm Hg) in diastolic blood pressure between intervention groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In Chinese older adults with normal blood pressure, replacing usual salt with a salt substitute may reduce the incidence of hypertension without increasing hypotension episodes. This suggests a desirable strategy for population-wide prevention and control of hypertension and cardiovascular disease, deserving further consideration in future studies. (Diet Exercise and Cardiovascular Health [DECIDE]-Salt Reduction Strategies for the Elderly in Nursing Homes in China [DECIDE-Salt]; NCT03290716).

High-throughput characterization of the effect of sodium chloride and potassium chloride on 31 lactic acid bacteria and their co-cultures

Salt (NaCl) is associated with a risk of hypertension and the development of coronary heart disease, so its consumption should be limited. However, salt plays a key role in the quality and safety of food by controlling undesirable microorganisms. Since studies have focused primarily on the effect of salts on the overall counts of the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) group, we have not yet understood how salt stress individually affects the strains and the interactions between them. In this study, we characterized the effect of sodium chloride (NaCl) and potassium chloride (KCl) on the growth and acidification of 31 LAB strains. In addition, we evaluated the effect of salts on a total of 93 random pairwise strain combinations. Strains and co-cultures were tested at 3% NaCl, 5% NaCl, and 3% KCl on solid medium using an automated approach and image analysis. The results showed that the growth of LAB was significantly reduced by up to 68% at 5% NaCl (p < 0.0001). For the co-cultures, a reduction of up to 57% was observed at 5% NaCl (p < 0.0001). However, acidification was less affected by salt stress, whether for monocultures or co-cultures. Furthermore, KCl had a lesser impact on both growth and acidification compared to NaCl. Indeed, some strains showed a significant increase in growth at 3% KCl, such as Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis 74310 (23%, p = 0.01). More importantly, co-cultures appeared to be more resilient and had more varied responses to salt stress than the monocultures, as several cases of suppression of the significant effect of salts on acidification and growth were detected. Our results highlight that while salts can modulate microbial interactions, these latter can also attenuate the effect of salts on LAB.

Potassium and Hypertension: A State-of-the-Art Review

Hypertension is the single most important and modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide. Non pharmacologic interventions, in particular dietary modifications have been established to decrease blood pressure (BP) and hypertension related adverse cardiovascular events. Among those dietary modifications, sodium intake restriction dominates guidelines from professional organizations and has garnered the greatest attention from the mainstream media. Despite guidelines and media exhortations, dietary sodium intake globally has not noticeably changed over recent decades. Meanwhile, increasing dietary potassium intake has remained on the sidelines, despite similar BP-lowering effects. New research reveals a potential mechanism of action, with the elucidation of its effect on natriuresis via the potassium switch effect. Additionally, potassium-substituted salt has been shown to not only reduce BP, but also reduce the risk for stroke and cardiovascular mortality. With these data, we argue that the focus on dietary modification should shift from a sodium-focused to a sodium- and potassium-focused approach with an emphasis on intervention strategies which can easily be implemented into clinical practice.

The Future for the Children of Tomorrow: Avoiding Salt in the First 1000 Days

It is widely known that optimal nutrition in the first 1000 days of life positively impacts the child's development throughout adulthood. In this setting, salt should not be added to complementary feeding. In developed countries, salt intake is generally higher than recommended for children. Excessive salt intake is the major determinant of hypertension and is associated with several cardiovascular outcomes. Therefore, pediatricians have a key role in raising awareness among parents to avoid salt consumption in the first 1000 days of life to ensure better health for their children. Starting from a review of the literature published in PubMed/MedLine regarding the short- and long-term consequences of salt consumption during the first 1000 days of life, our comprehensive review aims to analyze the beneficial effects of avoiding salt at such a vulnerable stage of life as the first 1000 days. Obesity, hypertension, increased salt sensitivity, high sweet drink consumption, increased mortality, and morbidity persisting in adult age represent the principal consequences of a higher salt intake during the first 1000 days of life.

Effect of low sodium and high potassium diet on lowering blood pressure and cardiovascular events

Incorporating aggressive lifestyle modifications along with antihypertensive medication therapy is a crucial treatment strategy to enhance the control rate of hypertension. Dietary modification is one of the important lifestyle interventions for hypertension, and it has been proven to have a clear effect. Among food ingredients, sodium and potassium have been found to have the strongest association with blood pressure. The blood pressure-lowering effect of a low sodium diet and a high potassium diet has been well established, especially in hypertensive population. A high intake of potassium, a key component of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, has also shown a favorable impact on the risk of cardiovascular events. Additionally, research conducted with robust measurement methods has shown cardiovascular benefits of low-sodium intake. In this review, we aim to discuss the evidence regarding the relationship between the low sodium and high potassium diet and blood pressure and cardiovascular events.

Awareness and Availability of Low Sodium Iodized Salt: Results from Formative Research of Promoting Uptake of Low SodiUm Iodized Salt by Rural and Urban HousehoLds in India-The PLURAL Study

Dietary sodium intake is high among adults in India. Use of low sodium iodized salt (LSIS) can help reduce sodium intake. However, contextually relevant and culturally appropriate interventions to promote LSIS uptake in India have not been developed and implemented. We carried out formative research to inform an intervention to promote uptake of LSIS among rural and urban households in north (Sonipat district) and south (Visakhapatnam and Anakapalli districts) India. Sixty-two in-depth interviews of six focus groups were held with a range of stakeholders-consumers, retailers and influencers. Participant views on availability, affordability, taste and safety of LSIS, along with views on hypertension, its risk factors and potential intervention design and delivery strategies were elicited. Thematic analysis of the data was carried out. While the awareness of hypertension and its risk factors was high among the participants, awareness of LSIS was low. There was also low demand for, and availability of, LSIS. Since cost of LSIS was higher than regular salt, participants preferred that a subsidy be provided to offset the cost. Based on these findings, an intervention to promote the uptake of LSIS was implemented by project staff using various educational materials such as posters, pamphlets and short videos.

Effect of preterm birth on growth and blood pressure in adulthood in the Pelotas 1993 cohort

BACKGROUND

Preterm birth has been associated with increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease later in adulthood, attributed to cardiovascular and metabolic alterations in early life. However, there is paucity of evidence from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

METHODS

We investigated the differences between preterm (<37 weeks gestational age) and term-born individuals in birth length and weight as well as adult (18 and 20 years) height, weight and blood pressure in the Brazilian 1993 Pelotas birth cohort using linear regressions. Analyses were adjusted for the maternal weight at the beginning of pregnancy and maternal education and family income at childbirth. Additional models were adjusted for body mass index (BMI) and birthweight. Separate analyses were run for males and females. The complete sample was analysed with an interaction term for sex.

RESULTS

Of the 3585 babies included at birth, 3010 were followed up in adulthood at 22 years. Preterm participants had lower length and weight at birth. This difference remained for male participants in adulthood, but female participants were no shorter than their term counterparts by 18 years of age. At 22 years, females born preterm had lower blood pressures (systolic blood pressure -1.00 mmHg, 95%CI -2.7, 0.7 mmHg; diastolic blood pressure -1.1 mmHg, 95%CI -2.4, 0.3 mmHg) than females born at term. These differences were not found in male participants.

CONCLUSIONS

In this Brazilian cohort we found contrasting results regarding the association of preterm birth with blood pressure in young adulthood, which may be unique to an LMIC.

Measuring Sodium from Discretionary Salt: Comparison of Methods

(1) Background: The best method to assess discretionary salt intake in population surveys has not been established. (2) Methods: This secondary analysis compared three different methods of measuring sodium intake from discretionary salt in a convenience sample of 109 adults in New Zealand. Participants replaced their household salt with lithium-tagged salt provided by researchers over eight days. Baseline 24 h urine was collected, and two further 24 h urine and 24 h dietary recalls were collected between days six and eight. Discretionary salt was estimated from the lithium-tagged salt, focused questions in the 24 h dietary recall, and the 'subtraction method' (a combination of 24 h urine and 24 h dietary recall measures). (3) Results: Around one-third of estimates from the 'subtraction method' were negative and therefore unrealistic. The mean difference between 24 h dietary recall and lithium-tagged salt estimates for sodium from discretionary salt mean were 457 mg sodium/day and 65 mg/day for mean and median, respectively. (4) Conclusions: It is possible to obtain a reasonable estimate of discretionary salt intake from careful questioning regarding salt used in cooking, in recipes, and at the table during a 24 h recall process to inform population salt reduction strategies.

Blood pressure and 10-year all-cause mortality: Findings from the PERU MIGRANT Study

Background

The long-term impact of elevated blood pressure on mortality outcomes has been recently revisited due to proposed changes in cut-offs for hypertension. This study aimed at assessing the association between high blood pressure levels and 10-year mortality using the Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC-7) and the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) 2017 blood pressure guidelines.

Methods

Data analysis of the PERU MIGRANT Study, a prospective ongoing cohort, was used. The outcome of interest was 10-year all-cause mortality, and exposures were blood pressure categories according to the JNC-7 and ACC/AHA 2017 guidelines. Log-rank test, Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression models were used to assess the associations of interest controlling for confounders. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were estimated.

Results

A total of 976 records, mean age of 60.4 (SD: 11.4), 513 (52.6%) women, were analyzed. Hypertension prevalence at baseline almost doubled from 16.0% (95% CI 13.7%-18.4%) to 31.3% (95% CI 28.4%-34.3%), using the JNC-7 and ACC/AHA 2017 definitions, respectively. Sixty-three (6.4%) participants died during the 10-year follow-up, equating to a mortality rate of 3.6 (95% CI 2.4-4.7) per 1000 person-years. Using JNC-7, and compared to those with normal blood pressure, those with pre-hypertension and hypertension had 2.1-fold and 5.1-fold increased risk of death, respectively. Similar mortality effect sizes were estimated using ACC/AHA 2017 for stage-1 and stage-2 hypertension.

Conclusions

Blood pressure levels under two different definitions increased the risk of 10-year all-cause mortality. Hypertension prevalence doubled using ACC/AHA 2017 compared to JNC-7. The choice of blood pressure cut-offs to classify hypertension categories need to be balanced against the patients benefit and the capacities of the health system to adequately handle a large proportion of new patients.

National Initiatives on Salt Substitutes: Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Salt substitutes are edible salts that contain less sodium chloride owing to its partial substitution with other minerals, which serve as an important and effective intervention and public health strategy targeting hypertension and its secondary diseases, despite a small degree of controversy.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify the current salt substitute initiatives in various nations and intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) worldwide and summarize their types and characteristics.

METHODS

A scoping review was performed based on Arksey and O'Malley's framework and the latest guidance from the Joanna Briggs Institute. Searches were conducted on Google; government websites on food, health, and other related topics; PubMed; Web of Science; and Google Scholar from January 2022 to May 2022. Initiatives related to salt substitutes that were included in the study focused on the involvement of governments or IGOs through the publication of standards, actions, collaborations, funding, and so on. Data were extracted into Microsoft Excel (version 2019; Microsoft Corp) based on predefined items and analyzed using narrative synthesis and frequency count methods.

RESULTS

A total of 35 initiatives from 11 countries (of which 9 are high-income countries) and 3 IGOs were identified. We classified all salt substitute initiatives into 5 types, namely benefit-risk assessments and cautions; plans and actions; regulations and standards; labels; and food reformulation, cooperation with the food industry, and media. More than half (18/35, 51%) of the salt substitute initiatives were launched within the past 5 years. Except for regulations and standards, salt substitute initiatives are, in general, part of the salt reduction framework. No nation or IGO has yet reported on the monitoring and implications of the use of salt substitutes.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the limited number of salt substitute initiatives worldwide at present, a review on the different types and characteristics of such initiatives could be helpful in providing a reference for policy makers and stakeholders. Given the great potential of salt substitutes in improving hypertension and stroke, we call on more nations to pay attention to these substitutes and propose salt substitute initiatives in line with their national conditions.

Dietary potassium stimulates Ppp1Ca-Ppp1r1a dephosphorylation of kidney NaCl cotransporter and reduces blood pressure

Consumption of low dietary potassium, common with ultraprocessed foods, activates the thiazide-sensitive sodium chloride cotransporter (NCC) via the with no (K) lysine kinase/STE20/SPS1-related proline-alanine-rich protein kinase (WNK/SPAK) pathway to induce salt retention and elevate blood pressure (BP). However, it remains unclear how high-potassium "DASH-like" diets (dietary approaches to stop hypertension) inactivate the cotransporter and whether this decreases BP. A transcriptomics screen identified Ppp1Ca, encoding PP1A, as a potassium-upregulated gene, and its negative regulator Ppp1r1a, as a potassium-suppressed gene in the kidney. PP1A directly binds to and dephosphorylates NCC when extracellular potassium is elevated. Using mice genetically engineered to constitutively activate the NCC-regulatory kinase SPAK and thereby eliminate the effects of the WNK/SPAK kinase cascade, we confirmed that PP1A dephosphorylated NCC directly in a potassium-regulated manner. Prior adaptation to a high-potassium diet was required to maximally dephosphorylate NCC and lower BP in constitutively active SPAK mice, and this was associated with potassium-dependent suppression of Ppp1r1a and dephosphorylation of its cognate protein, inhibitory subunit 1 (I1). In conclusion, potassium-dependent activation of PP1A and inhibition of I1 drove NCC dephosphorylation, providing a mechanism to explain how high dietary K+ lowers BP. Shifting signaling of PP1A in favor of activation of WNK/SPAK may provide an improved therapeutic approach for treating salt-sensitive hypertension.

Thirty years of the NaCl cotransporter: from cloning to physiology and structure

The primary structure of the thiazide-sensitive NaCl cotransporter (NCC) was resolved 30 years ago by the molecular identification of the cDNA encoding this cotransporter, from the winter's flounder urinary bladder, following a functional expression strategy. This review outlines some aspects of how the knowledge about thiazide diuretics and NCC evolved, the history of the cloning process, and the expansion of the SLC12 family of electroneutral cotransporters. The diseases associated with activation or inactivation of NCC are discussed, as well as the molecular model by which the activity of NCC is regulated. The controversies in the field are discussed as well as recent publication of the three-dimensional model of NCC obtained by cryo-electron microscopy, revealing not only the amino acid residues critical for Na+ and Cl- translocation but also the residues critical for polythiazide binding to the transporter, opening the possibility for a new era in thiazide diuretic therapy.

How Could Taxes on Sugary Drinks and Foods Help Reduce the Burden Of Type 2 Diabetes?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Taxes on sugary drinks and foods have emerged as a key strategy to counteract the alarming levels of diabetes worldwide. Added sugar consumption from industrialized foods and beverages has been strongly linked to type 2 diabetes. This review provides a synthesis of evidence on how taxes on sugary products can influence the onset of type 2 diabetes, describing the importance of the different mechanisms through which the consumption of these products is reduced, leading to changes in weight and potentially a decrease in the incidence of type 2 diabetes.

RECENT FINDINGS

Observational studies have shown significant reductions in purchases, energy intake, and body weight after the implementation of taxes on sugary drinks or foods. Simulation studies based on the association between energy intake and type 2 diabetes estimated the potential long-term health and economic effects, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, suggesting that the implementation of sugary food and beverage taxes may have a meaningful impact on reducing type 2 diabetes and complications. Public health response to diabetes requires multi-faceted approaches from health and non-health actors to drive healthier societies. Population-wide strategies, such as added sugar taxes, highlight the potential benefits of financial incentives to address behaviors and protective factors to significantly change an individual's health trajectory and reduce the onset of type 2 diabetes worldwide, both in terms of economy and public health.

Kaliuresis and Intracellular Uptake of Potassium with Potassium Citrate and Potassium Chloride Supplements: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

A potassium replete diet is associated with lower cardiovascular risk but may increase the risk of hyperkalemia, particularly in people using renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors. We investigated whether intracellular uptake and potassium excretion after an acute oral potassium load depend on the accompanying anion and/or aldosterone and whether this results in altered plasma potassium change.

METHODS

In this placebo-controlled interventional cross-over trial including 18 healthy individuals, we studied the acute effects of one oral load of potassium citrate (40 mmol), potassium chloride (40 mmol), and placebo in random order after overnight fasting. Supplements were administered after a 6-week period with and without lisinopril pretreatment. Linear mixed effect models were used to compare blood and urine values before and after supplementation and between the interventions. Univariable linear regression was used to determine the association between baseline variables and change in blood and urine values after supplementation.

RESULTS

During the 4-hour follow-up, the rise in plasma potassium was similar for all interventions. After potassium citrate, both red blood cell potassium-as measure of the intracellular potassium-and transtubular potassium gradient (TTKG)-reflecting potassium secretory capacity-were higher than after potassium chloride or potassium citrate with lisinopril pretreatment. Baseline aldosterone was significantly associated with TTKG after potassium citrate, but not after potassium chloride or potassium citrate with lisinopril pretreatment. The observed TTKG change after potassium citrate was significantly associated with urine pH change during this intervention ( R =0.60, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

With similar plasma potassium increase, red blood cell potassium uptake and kaliuresis were higher after an acute load of potassium citrate as compared with potassium chloride alone or pretreatment with lisinopril.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY NAME AND REGISTRATION NUMBER

Potassium supplementation in patients with chronic kidney disease and healthy subjects: effects on potassium and sodium balance, NL7618.

Potassium homeostasis - Physiology and pharmacology in a clinical context

Membrane voltage controls the function of excitable cells and is mainly a consequence of the ratio between the extra- and intracellular potassium concentration. Potassium homeostasis is safeguarded by balancing the extra-/intracellular distribution and systemic elimination of potassium to the dietary potassium intake. These processes adjust the plasma potassium concentration between 3.5 and 4.5 mmol/L. Several genetic and acquired diseases but also pharmacological interventions cause dyskalemias that are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The thresholds at which serum K+ not only associates but also causes increased mortality are hotly debated. We discuss physiologic, pathophysiologic, and pharmacologic aspects of potassium regulation and provide informative case vignettes. Our aim is to help clinicians, epidemiologists, and pharmacologists to understand the complexity of the potassium homeostasis in health and disease and to initiate appropriate treatment strategies in dyskalemic patients.

India's tryst with salt: Dandi march to low sodium salts

Salt plays a critical role in India's past as well as its present, from Dandi March to its role as a vehicle for micronutrient fortification. However, excess salt intake is a risk factor for high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Indians consume double the World Health Organization recommended daily salt (<5 g). India has committed to a 30 per cent reduction in sodium intake by 2025. Evidence based strategies for population sodium intake reduction require a moderate reduction in salt in - home cooked foods, packaged foods and outside-home foods. Reducing the sodium content in packaged food includes policy driven interventions such as front-of-package warning labels, food reformulation, marketing restrictions and taxation on high sodium foods. For foods outside of the home, setting standards for foods purchased and served by schemes like mid-day meals can have a moderate impact. For home cooked foods (the major source of sodium), strategies include advocacy for reducing salt intake. In addition to mass media campaigns for awareness generation, substituting regular salt with low sodium salt (LSS) has the potential to reduce salt intake even in the absence of a major shift in consumer behaviour. LSS substitution effectively lowers blood pressure and thus reduces the risk of CVDs. Further research is required on the effect of LSS substitutes on patients with chronic kidney disease. India needs an integrated approach to sodium reduction that uses evidence based strategies and can be implemented sustainably at scale. This will be possible only through scientific research, governmental leadership and a responsive evidence-to-action approach through a multi-stakeholder coalition.

Effectiveness of a community health worker-led low-sodium salt intervention to reduce blood pressure in rural Bangladesh: protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

High blood pressure is a major public health problem in low- and middle-income countries. Low-sodium salt substitute (LSSS) is a promising population-level blood pressure-lowering intervention requiring minimal behavioral change. The optimal method of delivering LSSS to individuals, however, is currently unknown. Community health workers (CHWs) have successfully been used to implement health interventions in Bangladesh and may provide a venue for the dissemination of LSSS.

METHODS

We aim to conduct a cluster-randomized controlled trial involving 309 households in rural Bangladesh previously identified and characterized by the BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University (BRAC JPGSPH). These households will be randomly assigned to three arms: (1) control, i.e., no intervention; (2) information only, i.e., community health workers will provide basic information on high blood pressure, the health consequences of excessive salt consumption, and feedback to the participant on the likely quantity of salt s/he consumes (estimated using a questionnaire); (3) free LSSS arm: the same information as in arm 2 will be provided, but participants will receive 6 months of free low-sodium salt along with education on the benefits of LSSS. One male and one female adult (age ≥ 18 years) in each household will be invited to participate, the exclusion criteria being households with members known to have high serum potassium levels, are taking medications known to elevate potassium levels (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs, potassium-sparing diuretics), are already taking potassium supplements, or those who have known kidney disease or abnormal serum creatinine at baseline. The primary endpoint will be blood pressure at 6 months post-intervention.

DISCUSSION

Recent large clinical trials of LSSS in China and India have shown not only blood pressure improvements, but also stroke, major cardiac event, and all-cause mortality reductions. Nevertheless, how to best translate this intervention to population-level effectiveness remains unclear. Our study would test whether a community health worker-based program could be effectively used to disseminate LSSS and achieve measurable blood pressure benefits.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05425030. Registered on June 21, 2022.

Sodium content in commonly consumed away-from-home food in three areas of Metropolitan Lima, Peru

The aim of this study was to characterize the sodium content in commonly consumed away-from-home food in three areas of Metropolitan Lima. We conducted a cross-sectional study, in which twenty frequently consumed foods were identified according to the place of sale. Sodium content was determined through atomic absorption spectroscopy in preparations collected in 2019. The median sodium content in street food products was 492.36 mg/100g (IQR: 83.93 - 918.78), 471.37 mg/100 g in artisanal food (IQR: 76.04 - 765.39) and 471.06 mg/100 g in fast food (IQR: 115.31 - 695.18). Sixty-five percent of the foods were classified as having high sodium content according to Peruvian regulations, while 30% of the preparations had high sodium content, according to UK parameters. Most food sold and consumed away from home have high sodium content. It is essential to engage all stakeholders involved in food preparation for away-from-home consumption in order to raise awareness and involve them in the promotion of policies aimed at reducing sodium intake.

Implementation of a salt substitute intervention using social marketing in resourced-limited communities in Peru: a process evaluation study

Objective

This study aimed to conduct a process evaluation of a salt substitute trial conducted in Peru.

Methods

Through semi-structured interviews of intervention participants, we documented and analyzed process evaluation variables as defined by the Medical Research Council Framework. This study was a stepped wedge trial conducted in Tumbes, Peru in 2014. The intervention was a community-wide replacement of regular salt (100% sodium) with "Salt Liz" (75% sodium and 25% potassium) using social marketing strategies to promote the adoption and continued use of the salt substitute in daily life. The components of the social marketing campaign included entertainment educational activities and local product promoters ("Amigas de Liz"). Another component of the intervention was the Salt Liz spoon to help guide the amount of salt that families should consume. The process evaluation variables measured were the context, mechanism of action, and implementation outcomes (acceptability, fidelity and adoption, perceptions, and feedback).

Results

In total, 60 women were interviewed, 20 with hypertension and 40 without hypertension. Regarding context, common characteristics across the four villages included residents who primarily ate their meals at home and women who were responsible for household food preparation. As the mechanism of action, most participants did not notice a difference in the flavor between regular salt and Salt Liz; those that did notice a difference took around 2 weeks to become accustomed to the taste of the salt substitute. In terms of implementation outcomes, the Salt Liz was accepted by villagers and factors explaining this acceptability included that it was perceived as a "high quality" salt and as having a positive effect on one's health. Participants recognized that the Salt Liz is healthier than regular salt and that it can help prevent or control hypertension. However, most participants could not accurately recall how the compositions of the Salt Liz and regular salt differed and the role they play in hypertension. Although the use of the Salt Liz was far-reaching at the community level, the use of the Salt Liz spoon was poor. Educational entertainment activities were well-received, and most participants enjoyed them despite not always being active participants but rather sideline observers.

Conclusion

This process evaluation identifies key intervention components that enabled a successful trial. Seeking and incorporating feedback from the target population helps deepen the understanding of contextual factors that influence an intervention's success. Furthermore, feedback received can aid the development of the intervention product. Some factors that can be improved for future interventions are acknowledged.

Clinical trial registration

NCT01960972.

Salt substitution and salt-supply restriction for lowering blood pressure in elderly care facilities: a cluster-randomized trial

There is a paucity of high-quality evidence on the effectiveness and safety of salt reduction strategies, particularly for older people, who have the most to benefit but are at higher risk of adverse effects. Here, we conducted a clinical trial in which 48 residential elderly care facilities in China (1,612 participants including 1,230 men and 382 women, 55 years or older) were cluster-randomized using a 2 × 2 factorial design to provision of salt substitute (62.5% NaCl and 25% KCl) versus usual salt and to a progressively restricted versus usual supply of salt or salt substitute for 2 years. Salt substitute compared with usual salt lowered systolic blood pressure (-7.1 mmHg, 95% confidence interval (CI) -10.5 to -3.8), meeting the primary outcome of the trial, whereas restricted supply compared with usual supply of salt or salt substitute had no effect on systolic blood pressure. Salt substitute also lowered diastolic blood pressure (-1.9 mmHg, 95% CI -3.6 to -0.2) and resulted in fewer cardiovascular events (hazard ratio (HR) 0.60, 95% CI 0.38-0.96), but had no effect on total mortality (HR 0.84, 95% CI 0.63-1.13). From a safety standpoint, salt substitute increased mean serum potassium and led to more frequent biochemical hyperkalemia, but was not associated with adverse clinical outcomes. In contrast, salt restriction had no effect on any study outcome. The results of this trial indicate that use of salt substitute, but not efforts to restrict salt supply, may achieve blood pressure lowering and deliver health benefits to residents of elderly care facilities in China. Clinicaltrials.gov registration: NCT03290716.

Dissociation of sodium-chloride cotransporter expression and blood pressure during chronic high dietary potassium supplementation

Dietary potassium (K+) supplementation is associated with a lowering effect in blood pressure (BP), but not all studies agree. Here, we examined the effects of short- and long-term K+ supplementation on BP in mice, whether differences depend on the accompanying anion or the sodium (Na+) intake and molecular alterations in the kidney that may underlie BP changes. Relative to the control diet, BP was higher in mice fed a high NaCl (1.57% Na+) diet for 7 weeks or fed a K+-free diet for 2 weeks. BP was highest on a K+-free/high NaCl diet. Commensurate with increased abundance and phosphorylation of the thiazide sensitive sodium-chloride-cotransporter (NCC) on the K+-free/high NaCl diet, BP returned to normal with thiazides. Three weeks of a high K+ diet (5% K+) increased BP (predominantly during the night) independently of dietary Na+ or anion intake. Conversely, 4 days of KCl feeding reduced BP. Both feeding periods resulted in lower NCC levels but in increased levels of cleaved (active) α and γ subunits of the epithelial Na+ channel ENaC. The elevated BP after chronic K+ feeding was reduced by amiloride but not thiazide. Our results suggest that dietary K+ has an optimal threshold where it may be most effective for cardiovascular health.

Sodium Management in Kidney Disease: Old Stories, New Tricks

Excessive dietary sodium intake is associated with an increased risk of hypertension, especially in the setting of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Although implementation of a low-sodium diet in patients with CKD generally is recommended, data supporting the efficacy of this practice is mostly opinion-based. Few controlled studies have investigated the specific association of dietary sodium intake and cardiovascular events and mortality in CKD. Furthermore, in epidemiologic studies, the association of sodium intake with CKD progression, cardiovascular risk, and mortality is not homogeneous, and both low- and high-sodium intake has been associated with adverse health outcomes in different studies. In general, the adverse effects of high dietary sodium intake are more apparent in the setting of advanced CKD. However, there is no established definitive target level of dietary sodium intake in different CKD stages based on glomerular filtration rate and albuminuria/proteinuria. This review discusses the current challenges regarding the rationale of sodium restriction, target levels and assessment of sodium intake, and interventions for sodium restrictions in CKD in relation to clinical outcomes.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Clinical Research: A Path Toward Precision Health for Everyone

Healthcare disparities are a persistent societal problem. One of the contributing factors to this status quo is the lack of diversity and representativeness of research efforts, which result in nongeneralizable evidence that, in turn, provides suboptimal means to enable the best possible outcomes at the individual level. There are several strategies that research teams can adopt to improve the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) of their efforts; these strategies span the totality of the research path, from initial design to the shepherding of clinical data through a potential regulatory process. These strategies include more intentionality and DEI-based goal-setting, more diverse research and leadership teams, better community engagement to set study goals and approaches, better tailored outreach interventions, decentralization of study procedures and incorporation of innovative technology for more flexible data collection, and self-surveillance to identify and prevent biases. Within their remit of overlooking research efforts, regulatory authorities, as stakeholders, also have the potential for a positive effect on the DEI of emerging clinical evidence. All these are implementable tools and mechanisms that can make study participation more approachable to diverse communities, and ultimately generate evidence that is more generalizable and a conduit for better outcomes. The research community has an imperative to make DEI principles key foundational aspects in study conduct in order to pursue better personalized medicine for diverse patient populations.

The urban built environment and adult BMI, obesity, and diabetes in Latin American cities

Latin America is the world's most urbanized region and its heterogeneous urban development may impact chronic diseases. Here, we evaluated the association of built environment characteristics at the sub-city -intersection density, greenness, and population density- and city-level -fragmentation and isolation- with body mass index (BMI), obesity, and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Data from 93,280 (BMI and obesity) and 122,211 individuals (T2D) was analysed across 10 countries. Living in areas with higher intersection density was positively associated with BMI and obesity, whereas living in more fragmented and greener areas were negatively associated. T2D was positively associated with intersection density, but negatively associated with greenness and population density. The rapid urban expansion experienced by Latin America provides unique insights and vastly expand opportunities for population-wide urban interventions aimed at reducing obesity and T2D burden.

Effect of salt reduction interventions in lowering blood pressure: A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Excessive salt intake results in hypertension (HTN), which is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). This review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of salt reduction interventions on systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP).

METHODS

Studies were identified via systematic searches of the databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. All the studies examining the effectiveness of salt reduction interventions on blood pressure (BP), regardless of age, sex, and HTN status, were included in the systematic review, and eligible studies were used in the meta-analysis. A random-effect model was applied for quantitative data synthesis.

RESULTS

A total of 50 trials extracted from 40 articles (21 trials on nutrition education,10 on self-help materials,17 on salt substitutes, and 2 on food reformulation) were included in the systematic review. The pooled results of 44 eligible trials showed that salt substitution and nutrition education interventions had significant effects on both SBP (WMD: -7.44 mmHg, P<0.001 and WMD: -2.75 mmHg, P<0.001, respectively), and DBP (WMD: -3.77 mmHg, P<0.001 and WMD: -2.11 mmHg, P<0.001, respectively). Furthermore, using self-help materials led to a significant reduction in SBP among subjects aged 25-60 years (WMD: -2.60 mmHg, P = 0.008); it also decreased both SBP and DBP among those who were hypertensive (WMD: -3.87 mmHg, P = 0.003 and WMD: -2.91 mmHg, P<0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our results supported that salt substitution and nutrition education are effective nutrition strategies to lower BP. It seems that multi-component approaches could be more effective in improving BP status. However, further trials are required.

Optimizing Hypertension Control Globally: WHF Roadmap

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Hypertension represents the most important cardiovascular risk factor, affecting over 4.06 billion adults worldwide. In this review, we will discuss potential barriers and their solutions to improve prevention, detection, and management of hypertension.

RECENT FINDINGS

The prevalence of hypertension has been increasing in low- and middle-income countries, requiring new strategies to improve its recognition and proper management. The World Heart Federation (WHF) developed a roadmap for hypertension, advising health system policies and clinical practices as part of its commitment to improving global cardiovascular health. The World Health Organization (WHO) has published in 2021 practical guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of hypertension in adults. Identifying potential roadblocks and solutions deserves high priority to improve the detection, management, and control of hypertension.

Hypertension management in patients with cardiovascular comorbidities

Arterial hypertension is a leading cause of death globally. Due to ageing, the rising incidence of obesity, and socioeconomic and environmental changes, its incidence increases worldwide. Hypertension commonly coexists with Type 2 diabetes, obesity, dyslipidaemia, sedentary lifestyle, and smoking leading to risk amplification. Blood pressure lowering by lifestyle modifications and antihypertensive drugs reduce cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality. Guidelines recommend dual- and triple-combination therapies using renin–angiotensin system blockers, calcium channel blockers, and/or a diuretic. Comorbidities often complicate management. New drugs such as angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors, sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, and non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists improve CV and renal outcomes. Catheter-based renal denervation could offer an alternative treatment option in comorbid hypertension associated with increased sympathetic nerve activity. This review summarises the latest clinical evidence for managing hypertension with CV comorbidities.

24-hour urinary potassium excretion is negatively associated with self-reported sleep quality in the general population, independently of sleep-disordered breathing

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To investigate the association of 24-hour urinary potassium excretion with self-reported sleep quality in the general population.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, a population of patients aged 18 years or older was randomly selected from Xinjiang, China in 2019, 24-hour urine samples collected, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaires assessed. Participants were divided into 2 groups (upper and lower median of 24-hour urinary potassium excretion). Poor sleep quality was defined as PSQI global score ≥ 6. Associations between 24-hour urinary potassium excretion and [24.8 mmol/L] sleep quality were assessed by multiple logistic regression analysis in total participants and those stratified by sex.

RESULTS

In total, 24-hour urine samples were collected from 1,147 participants, of whom data for those with complete urine samples and PSQI data were analyzed (n = 727; mean age = 48.7 years; percentage of women = 62%). Compared with the upper median group for 24-hour urinary potassium excretion, the lower median group showed a significantly higher PSQI global score (6 vs 5, P = .011), and prevalence of poor sleep quality (51.7% vs 42.2%, P = .011). In a fully-adjusted model of multivariate logistic regression, the lower median group showed 1.50-fold increased odds for presence of poor sleep quality (95% confidence interval: 1.01-2.24, P = .045). Sex-specific analyses translated these results to women, but not to men.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that low potassium intake, indicated by lower potassium excretion, is associated with poor sleep quality in the general population, especially among women. Therefore, additional research is necessary to clarify the effect of increasing potassium intake to improve sleep quality.

CITATION

Li M, Heizhati M, Wang L, et al. 24-hour urinary potassium excretion is negatively associated with self-reported sleep quality in the general population, independently of sleep-disordered breathing. J Clin Sleep Med. 2022;18(11):2589-2596.

Apolipoprotein L1 Genotypes and the Association of Urinary Potassium Excretion with CKD Progression

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Progressive CKD in Black individuals is strongly associated with polymorphisms in the APOL1 gene, but it is unknown whether dietary risk factors for CKD progression vary in high- versus low-risk APOL1 genotypes. We investigated if APOL1 genotypes modify associations of dietary potassium and sodium with CKD progression and death.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

We analyzed 1399 self-identified Black participants enrolled in the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort from April 2003 to September 2008. Exposures were calibrated 24-hour urine potassium and sodium excretion. The primary outcome was CKD progression defined as the time to 50% decline in eGFR or kidney failure. The secondary outcome was CKD progression or death. We tested for an interaction between urinary potassium and sodium excretion and APOL1 genotypes.

RESULTS

Median 24-hour urinary sodium and potassium excretions in Black participants were 150 mmol (interquartile range, 118-188) and 43 mmol (interquartile range, 35-54), respectively. Individuals with high- and low-risk APOL1 genotypes numbered 276 (20%) and 1104 (79%), respectively. After a median follow-up of 5.23 years, CKD progression events equaled 605, and after 7.29 years, CKD progression and death events equaled 868. There was significant interaction between APOL1 genotypes and urinary potassium excretion with CKD progression and CKD progression or death (P=0.003 and P=0.03, respectively). In those with high-risk APOL1 genotypes, higher urinary potassium excretion was associated with a lower risk of CKD progression (quartiles 2-4 versus 1: hazard ratio, 0.83; 95% confidence interval, 0.50 to 1.39; hazard ratio, 0.54; 95% confidence interval, 0.31 to 0.93; and hazard ratio, 0.50; 95% confidence interval, 0.27 to 0.93, respectively). In the low-risk APOL1 genotypes, higher urinary potassium excretion was associated with a higher risk of CKD progression (quartiles 2-4 versus 1: hazard ratio, 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 0.75 to 1.36; hazard ratio, 1.23; 95% confidence interval, 0.91 to 1.66; and hazard ratio, 1.53; 95% confidence interval, 1.12 to 2.09, respectively). We found no interaction between APOL1 genotypes and urinary sodium excretion with CKD outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher urinary potassium excretion was associated with lower versus higher risk of CKD progression in APOL1 high-risk and low-risk genotypes, respectively.

Estimated Benefits and Risks of Using a Reduced-Sodium, Potassium-Enriched Salt Substitute in India: A Modeling Study

BACKGROUND

Salt substitution (ie, replacement of table and cooking salt with potassium-enriched salt substitutes) is a promising strategy to reduce blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular disease, particularly in countries like India where there is high sodium intake, mainly from discretionary salt, and low potassium intake. Life-threatening hyperkalemia from increased potassium intake is a postulated concern for individuals with chronic kidney disease.

METHODS

We used comparative risk assessment models to estimate the number of (1) cardiovascular deaths averted due to blood pressure reductions; (2) potential hyperkalemia-related deaths from increased potassium intake in individuals with advanced chronic kidney disease; and (3) net averted deaths from nationwide salt substitution in India. We evaluated a conservative scenario, based on a large, long-term pragmatic trial in rural China; and an optimistic scenario informed by our recent trial in India. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the robustness of the findings.

RESULTS

In the conservative scenario, a nationwide salt substitution intervention was estimated to result in ≈214 000 (95% uncertainty interval, 92 764-353 054) averted deaths from blood pressure reduction in the total population and ≈52 000 (22 961-80 211) in 28 million individuals with advanced chronic kidney disease, while ≈22 000 (15 221-31 840) hyperkalemia-deaths might be caused by the intervention. The corresponding estimates for the optimistic scenario were ≈351 000 (130 470-546 255), ≈66 000 (24 925-105 851), and ≈9000 (4251-14 599). Net benefits were consistent across sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Modeling nationwide salt substitution in India consistently estimated substantial net benefits, preventing around 8% to 14% of annual cardiovascular deaths. Even allowing for potential hyperkalemia risks there were net benefits estimated for individuals with chronic kidney disease.

Effects of salt substitutes on clinical outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The Salt Substitute and Stroke Study (SSaSS) recently reported blood pressure-mediated benefits of a potassium-enriched salt substitute on cardiovascular outcomes and death. This study assessed the effects of salt substitutes on a breadth of outcomes to quantify the consistency of the findings and understand the likely generalisability of the SSaSS results.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library up to 31 August 2021. Parallel group, step-wedge or cluster randomised controlled trials reporting the effect of salt substitute on blood pressure or clinical outcomes were included. Meta-analyses and metaregressions were used to define the consistency of findings across trials, geographies and patient groups.

RESULTS

There were 21 trials and 31 949 participants included, with 19 reporting effects on blood pressure and 5 reporting effects on clinical outcomes. Overall reduction of systolic blood pressure (SBP) was -4.61 mm Hg (95% CI -6.07 to -3.14) and of diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was -1.61 mm Hg (95% CI -2.42 to -0.79). Reductions in blood pressure appeared to be consistent across geographical regions and population subgroups defined by age, sex, history of hypertension, body mass index, baseline blood pressure, baseline 24-hour urinary sodium and baseline 24-hour urinary potassium (all p homogeneity >0.05). Metaregression showed that each 10% lower proportion of sodium choloride in the salt substitute was associated with a -1.53 mm Hg (95% CI -3.02 to -0.03, p=0.045) greater reduction in SBP and a -0.95 mm Hg (95% CI -1.78 to -0.12, p=0.025) greater reduction in DBP. There were clear protective effects of salt substitute on total mortality (risk ratio (RR) 0.89, 95% CI 0.85 to 0.94), cardiovascular mortality (RR 0.87, 95% CI 0. 81 to 0.94) and cardiovascular events (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.85 to 0.94).

CONCLUSIONS

The beneficial effects of salt substitutes on blood pressure across geographies and populations were consistent. Blood pressure-mediated protective effects on clinical outcomes are likely to be generalisable across population subgroups and to countries worldwide.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42020161077.