High salt intake is important risk factor for hypertension, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate knowledge, attitude and practice regarding salt intake in rural population in continental Croatia. Data were obtained by standardized questionnaire in 928 adult subjects (586 women and 342 men). Results have shown low level of awareness (~60%) of salt risk. Women were more aware about the harmful effects of salt and could identify some food with higher concentration of salt. Participants were not aware through which food is the highest salt intake. Our results urge the need for national projects and public health campaigns that would raise the awareness of salt intake, need for health education particularly for rural population. Food industry and nutritionists should become partners in this initiative.

salt intake; rural population; knowledge; education and health promotion; hypertension

Published by University of Zagreb, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagreb, CROATIA
Sponsored by Ministry Science and Education of the Republic of Croatia