Knowledge, attitudes, and practices for salt consumption among adolescents in Oman: A cross-sectional survey

Background: Adolescence is a pivotal stage for establishing lifelong eating habits, yet unhealthy dietary behaviors, such as excessive salt consumption, are prevalent worldwide. The World Health Organization recommends limiting salt intake to less than 5 g per day; however, many adolescents exceed this limit, thereby increasing their risk of developing non-communicable diseases. In Oman, salt consumption is alarmingly high, yet adolescents lack knowledge about it. Henceforth, the study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding salt consumption among Omani adolescents in Oman. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 273 Omani adolescents aged 14 to 18 years, selected through stratified cluster sampling by governorate. Participants completed an adapted questionnaire to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices on salt consumption. Descriptive statistics, mean (±standard deviation) or frequencies and percentages, respectively, as well as p values, chi-squares, and 95% confidence intervals, accounted for the cluster and stratified sampling. Results: Knowledge: Most adolescents (88.4%) had a limited understanding of salt’s health risks. Only 23% knew the recommended daily salt intake, and 50.9% were unaware of the difference between salt and sodium. Attitudes: More than a third found it difficult to adjust, even though 57.4% of respondents favored cutting down on salt consumption. Practices: Poor dietary habits were widespread, with 80.1% scoring low on healthy salt-related behaviors. Many consumed high-salt foods, rarely read food labels, and seldom used salt substitutes. Despite their habits, only 24% recognized their risk for hypertension, though some showed interest in adopting low-salt diets and alternatives. Conclusion: The study discloses substantial deficiencies in Omani adolescents’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding salt consumption. This underscores the necessity of comprehensive interventions, such as promoting sodium alternatives, implementing family-oriented programs, implementing engaging educational campaigns, and establishing more transparent food labeling.