Clinical Modifiers of Salt Sensitivity: A Meta-Regression and Risk Translation Study.
HypertensionJul 23, 2026 (epub)
Szu-Han Chen, Chih-Yu Yeh, Yu-Pan Chiang-Lin et al.
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In 30 seconds
This meta-analysis examined the relationship between sodium intake and blood pressure across various clinical populations, analyzing 160 studies with 16,443 participants. It found that each 50-mmol/d increase in urinary sodium excretion was linked to a 1.76-mm Hg rise in systolic blood pressure. The prevalence of high salt sensitivity increased significantly with age and baseline blood pressure.
Key findings
- Each 50-mmol/d higher urinary sodium excretion was associated with a 1.76-mm Hg increase in systolic blood pressure.
- Salt sensitivity prevalence increased from 12.5% in those under 40 to 56.5% in those 60 and older.
- The number needed to restrict sodium to prevent one cardiovascular event ranged from ≈1334 in younger individuals to ≈87 in older adults with hypertension.
Why it matters
Understanding the modifiers of salt sensitivity can help clinicians identify patients who may benefit most from sodium reduction, potentially improving blood pressure management and reducing cardiovascular risk.