Ministry Urges Salt Reduction This Week
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is urging residents to cut salt as Salt Awareness Week runs May 12–18 and World Hypertension Day is observed on May 17, 2026. Officials warn that high salt intake raises the risk of hypertension, heart disease, stroke and kidney disease and encourage following the BVI Eat Well Guide and regular blood pressure checks.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is calling on Virgin Islands residents to reduce their salt intake and adopt healthier eating habits as the Territory observes Salt Awareness Week from May 12 to 18 and World Hypertension Day on May 17, 2026. Patrice Maduro cautioned that many people consume more salt than recommended, often without realising it. “Salt is hidden in many processed foods, and excessive intake over time increases blood pressure, placing strain on the heart and kidneys,” Ms.
The ministry reiterated that hypertension — often called the “silent killer” — can show no symptoms until serious damage has occurred. To help residents make practical changes, the Ministry recommends following the BVI Eat Well Guide and adopting five simple habits: reduce added salt, read food labels, practice portion control, eat more fresh foods, and check blood pressure regularly.
These steps are aimed at lowering population-level risk for high blood pressure and related complications such as heart disease, stroke and kidney disease. “Small shifts in purchasing and cooking habits can have a big impact,” Ms. Maduro said, noting that processed and pre-prepared foods often contain high amounts of sodium.
The Ministry encourages shoppers to compare nutrition labels, choose lower-sodium options, and use herbs, citrus and spices instead of salt when flavouring meals. As part of the awareness week, the Ministry will distribute educational flyers and broadcast public service announcements across the Territory to promote healthier lifestyles and provide guidance on reducing salt intake.
Community clinics and health centres are expected to offer blood pressure checks; residents are advised to make use of these services and consult health professionals if readings are consistently high. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and promoting the health and social well‑being of the people of the Virgin Islands through policies, programmes and partnerships that support a safer, healthier and more resilient community.
For more information or media enquiries, contact Natasha Lettsome-Humphrey, Public Health Communications Specialist, Ministry of Health and Social Development, telephone: 468-2286, email: nlettsome@gov.vg. For broader government services, call (284) 468-3701 or use the Government of the Virgin Islands virtual booking system.
Primary source: BVI Government