NC H670

Supports measures aimed at decreasing heart disease and stroke in North Carolina and encourages citizens to reduce dietary sodium intake.

Acknowledges that one in three American adults has high blood pressure and that 31.5% of North Carolina adults have been diagnosed with hypertension.

References the 2010 U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommending less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day, with stricter limits of 1,500 milligrams for those 51 and older or with certain health conditions.

Notes that Americans currently consume an average of 3,466 milligrams of sodium daily, about 51% above recommended levels, and that reducing to 1,500 milligrams could decrease high blood pressure by 25.6% and save $26.2 billion in health care costs.

Endorses the Stroke Advisory Council's recommendations to increase public awareness of stroke risk factors and support initiatives promoting healthier lifestyles through sodium reduction.