NACDD Applauds New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene for Sodium Reduction Initiative

The National Association of Chronic Disease Directors (NACDD) commends the New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene for its efforts to reduce salt intake, which can significantly reduce blood pressure. High blood pressure - a common result of excessive salt intake - causes cardiovascular disease, the nation's leading cause of death.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) January 29, 2009 -- The National Association of Chronic Disease Directors (NACDD) commends the New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene for its efforts to reduce salt intake, which can significantly reduce blood pressure. High blood pressure - a common result of excessive salt intake - causes cardiovascular disease, the nation's leading cause of death.

"The NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene should be recognized and commended for its pioneering efforts to encourage the reduction of such a chronic disease risk factor among its residents," said John Robitscher, NACDD Executive Director. "Public and private sector initiatives to reduce salt intake are an important step toward preventing deadly and disabling chronic conditions."

Both the NACDD and the New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene are signatories, along with 19 other national, state and municipal health organizations, to a statement summarizing shared objectives and proposed process for reducing sodium intake. These organizations are committed to working toward reducing population salt intake by at least 20 percent during the next five years by setting targets and monitoring progress through a transparent, public process. The signed statement can be viewed online at www.chronicdisease.org.

About the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors (NACDD)

The National Association of Chronic Disease Directors (NACDD) is a national public health association for chronic disease program directors of each state and U.S. territory. The NACDD works to reduce the impact of chronic diseases on the American population by advocating for preventive policies and programs, encouraging sharing of knowledge and developing partnerships for health promotion. (www.chronicdisease.org).

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