Disclosure of Genetic Risk for Salt Sensitivity

The global burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) has decreased over the past 10 years. Nevertheless, the disease still kills one in three people. Hypertension is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular disease, with salt in the diet being a main contributor. Depending on an individual's DNA, participants may or may not be salt sensitive. Genotyping individuals for variants in a salt sensitivity gene (SLC4A5) may identify salt sensitive individuals which may benefit from a personalised dietary advice to reduce salt intake. Adherence to such advice can then be assessed which may aid in prevention of hypertension and CVD.