Understanding knowledge, attitudes and behaviours related to dietary sodium intake in a multi-ethnic population in Singapore

Abstract Objective: This study aimed to fill the current gap in the understanding of the knowledge, attitudes and behaviours (KAB) related to dietary Na among adult residents in Singapore. Design: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between October and December 2020 on 955 participants selected through random sampling. Setting: The survey was conducted in Singapore. Participants: Participants were recruited from the Singapore Population Health Study Online Panel. Results: Participants’ mean age was 46·6 ± 14·1 years old and 58 % of them were females. Most of the participants were Chinese (82·1 %), 10·5 % were Indian and 4·5 % were Malay. Findings from the weighted data showed that most participants were aware of the health impact of high Na consumption. However, many participants were unaware of the recommended intake for salt (68%) and Na (83%), had misconceptions, and were unable to correctly use food labels to assess NA content (69%). Findings also alluded to the presence of knowledge gaps in the sources of Na in their diet. While 59 % of the participants reported to be limiting their consumption of Na, many reported facing barriers such as not knowing how to limit their Na intake. Participants also felt that there were limited options for low-Na foods when eating out and were lacking awareness of low-Na products. Conclusions: Findings highlighted substantial gaps in participants’ knowledge and skills in managing their Na consumption. This suggests the need for more public education and improvements in the food environment.