Increased salt intake - an important independent risk factor of coronary heart disease development and progression

Aim. To investigate the effects of increased salt (S) intake on blood pressure (BP) and further coronary heart disease (CHD) progression in patients with post-infarction cardiosclerosis (PICS). Material and methods. In total, 150 individuals with PICS and arterial hypertension (AH) were examined; mean age 54 4 years. Together with standard clinical examination, S taste sensitivity (STS), 24-hour urinary Na+ excretion, and quality of life (QOL) assessment was performed, together with 24-hour BP monitoring and echocardiography (EchoCG). Results. Among PICS and AH patients, 51% had higher STS, S intake with food, and urinary Na+ excretion. Their clinical status was more severe. These individuals also smoked more, had higher cholesterol levels, worse QoL, and compromised family anamnesis. In this group, circadian BP was higher, with disturbed circadian BP rhythm, increased end-diastolic left ventricular (LV) volume and LV myocardial mass, decreased cardiac output, and LV diastolic dysfunction, according to EchoCG data. Conclusion. Increased S intake is an independent CHD risk factor of CHD development and progression.