LONDON, Sept. 13 (UPI) -- An initiative by Britain's Food Standards Agency is designed to raise awareness of the danger of salt poses for high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.
The FSA said at least 26 million Britons people consume more than the recommended 6 grams of salt a day -- men eat an average 11 grams of salt daily or nearly two level teaspoons. Women consume around 8.1 grams, the Daily Telegraph reported Monday.
"High blood pressure really is the 'silent killer' as those living with it are three times more likely to develop heart disease and stroke, and twice as likely to die from these diseases as those with normal levels," said John Krebs, chairman of the FSA.
"The human cost in terms of illness and death and the costs to the National Health Service are very high," Krebs added. "Cutting down on salt can significantly reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure."
The $7 million television, newspaper and poster campaign features a character called "Sid the Slug." a Web site will give advice on reducing salt consumption.
