In 2009, the PAHO Director convened a two-year Regional Expert Group (EG) to lead and issue recommendations on the  PAHO initiative: “Cardiovascular Disease Prevention through Dietary Salt Reduction.”

The main objectives of the initiative were to:

• explore the epidemiological situation regarding cardiovascular disease and its link to excessive salt consumption in the Americas;
• review existing policies, interventions, and programs aimed at reducing dietary salt and issue evidence-based recommendations for salt reduction in the Region;
• discuss, review and, agree with relevant partners on the use of salt as vehicle for micronutrient fortification;
• foster public and private partnerships.

The EG was a multi-faceted scientific and technical group formed by recognized worldwide experts in the fields of nutrition and cardiovascular diseases aimed at initiating a process of strengthening capacity in the region to implement population-wide salt reduction policies. 

The EG has completed its two year assignment, which culminated in a Final Report, and continues today as the Technical Advisory Group (TAG) for the period 2012-2015.

Final Report. WHO/PAHO Regional Expert Group for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention through Population-Wide Dietary Salt Reduction Final Report. 2011.

• First Expert Group meeting September 2009
• Second Expert Group meeting October 2011